A Barossa Cabernet born of toil, laughter and long lunches.
Once a year, Rockford invites their loyal restaurant and retail crew to swap white linens and wine lists for secateurs and sunshine. This spirited harvest of the Home Block Cabernet Sauvignon is pure Rockford: mate ship, old vines and a touch of mischief. From a tiny one-and-a-half-acre patch, these hand-picked grapes arrive at the vintage shed stained with honest sweat and the promise of good times ahead.
The 2018 vintage spent three years in seasoned French oak hogsheads and large vats, after a traditional open vat ferment and gentle basket press—Rockford’s nod to the timeless ways. The result is a richly varietal Cabernet, brimming with cassis and blackcurrant depth, layered with spice, leather and the earthy warmth only time can weave.
A magnum to share at a table big enough for stories. Drink now with roast beef and Yorkshire pudding, or cellar for another decade to let its generous Barossa heart grow ever more complex.
Maker
Discover the essence of Barossa Valley's heart in Tanunda at Rockford, where a legacy of tantalising taste experiences has been crafted since the 1980s. During those times, the land was more accessible, offering an inviting opportunity for aspiring winemakers to thrive. Robert O'Callaghan, the visionary founder and proprietor, seized the moment and acquired the property that is now home to Rockford. Building strong connections with local grape growers and acquiring top-notch winemaking equipment, Robert embarked on his remarkable winemaking odyssey at Rockford, paving the way for unforgettable wine journeys.
Since its inception, Rockford has embraced a small-scale approach, nurturing close relationships with growers and forging genuine connections with customers. This steadfast commitment to personal connections sets Rockford apart, a competitive edge that stems from decades of fostering rapport within the local community. The land upon which Rockford stands boasts a rich history, its buildings and equipment carefully preserved throughout the years, exuding an enchanting antique charm. During the exploration of the premises, the captivating aroma of wine production permeates the air, immersing individuals in a sensory experience that harmoniously blends with the site's distinctive ambiance. Amidst the allure of Rockford's surroundings, the wines themselves take centre stage. Crafted with passion and meticulous attention to detail, they encapsulate the essence of Barossa Valley's terroir. Each sip unveils a delightful flavour profile, a testament to Rockford's dedication to producing wines that captivate the palate and evoke a genuine sense of pleasure.
The Vineyard
In addition to the small home vineyard, Rockford works in partnership with several independent wine growers around Barossa, with vineyards in Kalimna, Ebenezer, Moppa Springs, the Eden Valley and central Barossa. This gives Rockford a wide variety of soil types, mesoclimates and altitudes for its grapes. Many of the vines are planted on their own rootstocks and range up to 130 years old, giving intense, concentrated grapes, and wines with the same attributes. Winemaking is largely traditional, using basket presses, open-topped slate fermenters and a 1880s petrol-driven Bagshaw destemmer/crusher.
Tasting Notes
NOSE
– Dark fruits & underbrush
Blackcurrant, truffle and hints of tomato bush.
PALATE
– Sinewy and deep
Plum and bramble with a lean, approachable line.
FINISH
– Chocolate & herbs
Plush tannins, lingering dark chocolate and dried herb edges.
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