Torbreck The Factor 2020

Region and Vineyards

The Factor 2020 is sourced primarily from the Gomersal and Marananga sub-regions, with additional parcels from Krondorf and Ebenezer. These areas in the western Barossa are renowned for their ancient soils and low-yielding, dry-grown vineyards, many of which were established in the 19th century. South Australia's early quarantine laws protected these vines from phylloxera, meaning many still thrive on their original rootstocks — a rarity globally.

The 2020 vintage presented numerous viticultural challenges. Strong winds during flowering reduced fruit set across much of the region, compounded by a dry winter and spring, and intensely hot and dry conditions through December and January. While yields were significantly down, the resulting fruit was exceptionally concentrated, particularly from old vines with deep roots that withstood the stress.

Winemaking

The wine is made from 100% Shiraz, harvested between 16th March and 3rd April 2020. It underwent extended aging: 24 months in French oak barriques, with a blend of 40% new, second fill, and seasoned barrels to achieve both structure and elegance without overpowering the fruit.

Alcohol is 15%, with a pH of 3.55 and acidity at 6.08 g/L, striking a harmonious balance between density and freshness. The oak integration is precise, framing the wine’s inherent richness without dominating its aromatic or structural profile.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep purple, almost opaque black.
• Aroma: Intensely aromatic with layers of satsuma plum, blackberry, and boysenberry, enriched by notes of dark cocoa, vanilla bean, and a hint of maraschino liqueur.
• Palate: Plush, dense and mouth-coating. The core of ripe black fruit is wrapped in velvety yet concentrated tannins. Mineral accents of Barossa ironstone, dried earth, and eucalyptus lend dimension. The finish is polished, long and elegant, sustained by refined acidity.

Did you know?

The name "The Factor" refers to the historical term for the manager of a Highland estate, a nod to the Scottish heritage of many Barossa settlers. The wine pays tribute not just in name, but in stature — a commanding, deeply rooted expression of terroir and tradition.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Wagyu beef short ribs with red wine jus: The wine’s richness and structure embrace the depth of flavor and unctuous texture.
• Lamb tagine with prunes and spices: The wine’s sweet plum and maraschino notes echo the dish’s dark fruit profile, while its structure balances the spice.
• Porcini mushroom risotto with truffle oil: Earthy flavors pair beautifully with the Shiraz’s mineral and cocoa undertones.
• Venison with wild berry compote: A refined match that highlights the wine’s fruit intensity and velvety mouthfeel.

History of Torbreck Estate

Torbreck Vintners was founded in 1994 by David Powell, a former lumberjack, who discovered neglected old-vine Shiraz vineyards in the Barossa Valley. Inspired to create a winery, Powell began by share-farming, a system where he managed the vineyards in exchange for a share of the grape yield. This allowed him to source high-quality fruit from some of the oldest and most prestigious vineyards in the region.

Torbreck's first wine, RunRig, was produced in 1995 from just three tonnes of Shiraz and Viognier grapes. The winery quickly gained international acclaim, particularly following a highly favorable review in The Wine Advocate​​​​.

In 2008, Torbreck completed a state-of-the-art winery and bottling facility, which allowed for complete control over the vinification process.

The estate changed ownership in 2013 when David Powell left, and Peter Kight, the current owner, continues to uphold the winery's high standards​​.

Region and Vineyards

Torbreck is situated in the Barossa Valley, a region renowned for its warm Mediterranean climate and diverse soil types, ideal for producing robust and complex red wines. The Barossa Valley, protected by the Mount Lofty Ranges, is known for its hot, sunny days and cooler nights, which are perfect for growing Shiraz. The valley's soils range from clay to sandy loam and red-brown earth, contributing to the complexity and intensity of the wines produced.

The estate also sources grapes from the Eden Valley, a cooler region with higher altitudes, contributing to the aromatic and structured nature of some of its wines. Eden Valley is known for its well-drained granite and sandy loam soils, producing Shiraz that is more elegant and has a characteristic minerality.

These regions allow Torbreck to create wines with a balance of elegance and intensity​.

Wine Range

Torbreck offers a diverse range of wines, focusing primarily on Rhone varieties such as Shiraz, Grenache, and Mataro. Their flagship wines include:

• The Laird: A single-vineyard Shiraz, one of the most expensive wines in Australia, known for its power and complexity.
• RunRig: A blend of Shiraz and Viognier, often compared to the wines of Côte Rôtie, known for its rich, aromatic profile.
• Descendant: A Shiraz/Viognier blend sourced from vines planted with cuttings from the RunRig vineyards.
• The Factor: Made from old-vine Shiraz, aged in French oak, known for its deep, brooding character.
• The Steading: A blend of Grenache, Shiraz, and Mataro, inspired by Châteauneuf-du-Pape​​​​.

Did you know?

Torbreck’s name is derived from a forest near Inverness, Scotland, reflecting founder David Powell’s heritage. This influence extends to the naming of their wines, such as The Laird and The Steading, which pay homage to Scottish traditions and landscapes​​​​.