Wines Barossa Valley Torbreck - RunRig - 2012

Viniou Reviews

Torbreck’s RunRig 2012 is an exceptional red wine from Australia’s iconic Barossa Valley, expressing the character, richness, and opulence that have made the region world-famous. The wine is a blend, predominantly based on Shiraz, but traditionally includes a small percentage of Viognier, which is co-fermented to bring aromatic lift and finesse. The 2012 vintage benefitted from moderate weather, allowing for a long, even ripening season and resulting in deeply concentrated fruit and remarkable balance. Torbreck employs meticulous vinification: low yields in old, dry-grown vineyards, manual harvesting, gentle pressing, and careful aging in French oak barriques. The result is a wine of great depth and complexity, with notes of blackberries, plums, dark chocolate, sweet spices, and a subtle floral note from the Viognier.

The Barossa Valley, located in South Australia, is perhaps Australia’s most storied wine region, dating back to the 1840s. Its climate is warm and Mediterranean, with hot days and cool nights moderated by its inland elevation. The soils are varied, but often consist of ironstone, sandy loams, and clay, which contribute to the dense structure and intense fruit profile of the wines. Barossa is particularly renowned for its old-vine Shiraz, with some vineyards planted in the 19th century still in production, giving wines like RunRig their signature power and longevity.

Given the wine’s richness, it pairs beautifully with robust, flavourful dishes. Think slow-cooked lamb shanks, pepper-crusted beef fillet, or game meats such as venison in a red wine jus. Its depth stands up well to barbecued meats and, for a regional nod, a classic Australian beef pie or charred kangaroo steak. For vegetarian options, try aubergine parmigiana or wild mushroom risotto with truffle oil.

To experience RunRig 2012 at its peak, decant the wine for at least an hour prior to serving. The ideal serving temperature is 16-18°C, which will highlight both the aromatic complexity and the lush texture of this outstanding Barossa red.