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93 Points
Rockford Basket Press Shiraz 2000 1.5L is a mature, large-format expression of one of the Barossa Valley’s most enduring traditional Shiraz labels. Established by Robert O’Callaghan, Rockford has built Basket Press Shiraz around specially selected parcels supplied by long-standing Barossa grape-growing families. Fruit from vineyards situated across different Barossa subregions contributes complexity, depth and a faithful representation of the wider region. The wine is handmade using traditional equipment, including the basket press from which the label takes its name. Rockford’s established Basket Press method includes maturation in seasoned American and French oak casks for approximately two years, allowing the fruit and oak to develop without an excessive new-oak influence. Decanter has also documented the label’s historic reliance on old, unirrigated vineyards and numerous growers throughout the middle and northern Barossa Valley.
The 2000 release came from a warmer Barossa season, yet critic Jeremy Oliver found that the wine retained balance without displaying overt overripeness. Now fully mature, it presents a complex combination of red berries, cherries, cassis and plum alongside cedar, vanilla, leather, liquorice, clove and earthy bottle-aged nuances. The palate is soft and creamy, becoming increasingly fine and silky as it moves toward the finish. Wine Spectator additionally identified ripe black cherry, coffee, smoke, meat and mint within its full-bodied profile. The 1.5L magnum format gives this mature Australian classic an impressive and highly collectible presentation. As with any wine of this age, its current condition and development will depend heavily upon cork integrity, storage history and provenance.
Rockford Basket Press Shiraz 2000 1.5L is a mature, large-format expression of one of the Barossa Valley’s most enduring traditional Shiraz labels. Established by Robert O’Callaghan, Rockford has built Basket Press Shiraz around specially selected parcels supplied by long-standing Barossa grape-growing families. Fruit from vineyards situated across different Barossa subregions contributes complexity, depth and a faithful representation of the wider region. The wine is handmade using traditional equipment, including the basket press from which the label takes its name. Rockford’s established Basket Press method includes maturation in seasoned American and French oak casks for approximately two years, allowing the fruit and oak to develop without an excessive new-oak influence. Decanter has also documented the label’s historic reliance on old, unirrigated vineyards and numerous growers throughout the middle and northern Barossa Valley.
The 2000 release came from a warmer Barossa season, yet critic Jeremy Oliver found that the wine retained balance without displaying overt overripeness. Now fully mature, it presents a complex combination of red berries, cherries, cassis and plum alongside cedar, vanilla, leather, liquorice, clove and earthy bottle-aged nuances. The palate is soft and creamy, becoming increasingly fine and silky as it moves toward the finish. Wine Spectator additionally identified ripe black cherry, coffee, smoke, meat and mint within its full-bodied profile. The 1.5L magnum format gives this mature Australian classic an impressive and highly collectible presentation. As with any wine of this age, its current condition and development will depend heavily upon cork integrity, storage history and provenance.
“Traditional warmer year Barossa red developing more quickly than most under this label, but without a hint of over-ripeness.”
“Big, ripe, rangy and solid, with smoky, meaty black cherry and coffee flavors, echoing enticing mint notes on the long, harmonious finish.”
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.
At Rockford, winemaking is about more than just producing exceptional wine—it's about connection, community, and tradition. The winery’s philosophy revolves around embracing the region’s rich history while looking forward to a sustainable future. Rockford works closely with independent grape growers in various Barossa subregions, ensuring that each vineyard’s unique soil, climate, and altitude contribute to the distinct characteristics of their wines.
This dedication to traditional winemaking methods—using tools and techniques passed down through generations—ensures that each bottle of Rockford wine is a true expression of the Barossa terroir. With a focus on small-scale production, Rockford continues to create wines that are as much about the people behind the bottle as the land from which they come.
Red cherries, cassis, ripe plum, old leather, dusty cedar, vanilla oak and subtle mint.
Dark cherry, plum, liquorice, clove, coffee and earthy complexity with a creamy, silky texture.
Lingering dark fruit, mint, cedar, coffee and fine, mature tannins.