Rockford Local Growers Semillon 2021
Rockford Wines is a renowned wine producer located in the iconic Barossa Valley of Australia. Established in the early 1980s by Robert O'Callaghan, it has gained recognition as one of the most distinguished wineries in Australia, producing premium Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon wines. O'Callaghan commenced his career as a trainee winemaker in 1965 at Seppelt in Rutherglen, Victoria. In 1971, he relocated to the Barossa and acquired two hectares (five acres) of land beneath the Barossa ranges, where he planted vines and built a winery in the style of the 1850s stone cottage. Rockford's first vintage was released in 1984. Rockford's commitment to producing exceptional wines involves working in partnership with several independent wine growers around the Barossa region. Many of the vines are planted on their own rootstocks and are up to 130 years old, resulting in intense, concentrated grapes and wines with the same attributes. The winemaking process at Rockford is largely traditional, utilizing basket presses, open-topped slate fermenters and a 1880s petrol-driven Bagshaw destemmer/crusher.
Semillon has a rich history in the Barossa Valley and it is home to the oldest vineyards of this variety in the world. The first settlers planted Semillon as one of the early white wine grape varieties around 160 years ago and it has been a natural fit for the region ever since. Thanks to the Mediterranean climate and careful farming practices, the Barossa has a legacy of old, low-yielding Semillon vineyards. The legacy of old, low-yielding Semillon vineyards in the Barossa has played a crucial role in shaping the unique and exceptional characteristics of Barossa Semillon. As a result, it has become a highly sought-after varietal, cherished by wine enthusiasts around the world.
Rockford Local Growers Semillon 2021 undergoes a meticulous maturation process after fermentation, spending time in a combination of large, seasoned oak casks and hogshead barrels, as well as a separate unwooded component on light yeast lees. Once blended and bottled, this wine is aged for approximately two years before its release, showcasing dedication to traditional Australian winemaking and continuing the legacy of rich, dry, full-bodied Barossa Semillon. Rockford Local Growers Semillon 2021 is a wine that embodies the classic Barossa Semillon style, with its weight and richness of flavour. Its taste profile is a delightful blend of ripe lime, honey, flowers, green melon and a hint of cinnamon. The wine has a grainy/waxy texture, balanced acidity and a slight green herb undertone, culminating in a fairly rich finish. One of the unique features of this wine is its ability to age gracefully. While it is already a delicious wine, it has the potential to develop even more complexity and depth over time. Rockford Local Growers Semillon 2021 is a versatile wine that pairs well with a variety of dishes. It is best served slightly chilled and is a perfect accompaniment to grilled seafood, fresh garden salads, or a roast Barossa chicken. Whether you are enjoying it now or saving it for later, Rockford Local Growers Semillon 2021 is a wine that is sure to impress.
The Finer Details
Style - White Wine
Varietal - Semillon
Country - Australia
Region - Barossa Valley, South Australia
Vintage - 2021
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 11.4%