Torbreck "The Steading Blanc" 2022
(Barossa Valley, Australia) - [JS 94] [WA 93]

Notes from the Winemaker:
Inspired by the rich, luscious and mineral scented dry whites of the Rhône Valley, The Steading - Blanc is sourced entirely from the Descendant Vineyard on Roennfeldt Road first planted in 1994 on the Torbreck estate. The ripe, fleshy, barrel fermented Viognier and Marsanne gives the palate a textural edge whilst the Roussanne contributes it’s more flinty and austere personality.

Tasting Notes:

Fragrant aromas of white flowers, summer stone fruits, roasted nuts and buttered citrus are balanced with underlying hints of bees wax, spices such as nutmeg and ginger. Medium bodied with mid palate texture to the opulent fruit, and a lively line of acid along a long, spicy and mineral strewn finish. The Steading - Blanc is an exotic wine that is perfectly matched with crustaceans, lobster bisque or anything from the sea.

Ratings & Reviews

94 Points - James Suckling:
"There’s a waxy, dried apple and pear character with light cedar. It’s medium-bodied with creamy texture and a flavorful finish. Balanced and lightly oily, but remains vivid. Wild ferment."

93 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate:
"Like the Cuvée Juvenile Blanc, this 2022 The Steading Blanc is Roussanne-led (50%), followed by Marsanne (43%) and Viognier (7%). While the Roussanne went straight to tank (i.e., no oak), the Marsanne and Viognier were fermented and matured in seasoned French oak. That is undoubtedly what brings the softness to the middle palate, while the Roussanne contributes white flowers and chalk to the perimeters. There is also green apple (skin), loquat, lychee, white plum and nashi pear. This is lovely, complex, plush and laden with white pepper through the finish. The phenolics have a firmness to them—very attractive in a white wine.