2022 Torbreck Vintners The Steading Blanc Barossa Valley

“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. Roussanne, marsanne and viognier. Screw cap. Drink now.” – Jamessuckling.com Review Date: May 2023

“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.” – Erin Larkin Review Date: April 2023