Product Information:
One of the many European traditions that the first settles brought to the Barossa was their love of small bore target shooting. The wine, food, and fun that went with those days made them an important part of early Barossan social life.
Rifle Range Road which runs parallel to Krondorf Road, is in the heart of the Valley Floor and winds its way up the hills to Kaiser Stuhl National Park. The old rifle range is long gone, but the farming land and vineyards that have always been part of the landscape are still there. Because most of Rockford's Cabernet Sauvignon comes from vineyards adjacent to Rifle Range Road, it seemed the most appropriate name for this wine which has been part of Rockford since the very beginning.
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.
Vineyard:
Most people would be unaware that Cabernet Sauvignon has been planted in the Barossa since at least 1888. Barossa Cabernets are rich, full flavoured wines and are a perfect fit into the Rockford stable. The fruit for this wine comes predominantly from vineyards along Rifle Range Road. The ‘Biscay’ soil of these vineyards is heavy clay, lending the wine its full flavour and earthy tones. The perfect wine to hide in your cellar, for as long as you are able. Winemaking is largely traditional, using basket presses, open-topped slate fermenters and a 1880s petrol-driven Bagshaw destemmer/crusher.
Tasting:
Nose - Dark Cherry, Vanilla, Dusty Spice
Juicy dark cherry and raspberry, cedar and vanilla, dusty spicy perfume too.
Palate - Dark Plum, Chocolatey, Cedar Oak
Smooth, supple palate; you absolutely know the wine is idling along, unused power under the bonnet.
Finish - Dried Herbs, Mulberries, Soft Tannins
Perfect balance and structure. Fairly fine grained tannins.
Juicy dark cherry and raspberry, cedar and vanilla, dusty spicy perfume too. It’s fresh, almost medium-bodied, with a lightness of fruit – pretty, but not deep – smooth powdery tannin, a smattering of dried herb on a finish of fair length. It’s a charmer. Should age pretty well too. And improve. - Gary Walsh
Sumptuously and deeply ripened, but with the brightness and vivaciousness that derives from a later season such as 2015, this mouthfilling and supple wine delivers luscious cassis, dark plum, and mulberry flavour backed by chocolatey, cedary oak and a fine, pliant spine of loose-knit tannins. It’s smooth and approachable, but will certainly develop in the bottle. Drink 2023-2027+. - Jeremy Oliver
The Finer Details
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - Cabernet Sauvignon
Country - Australia
Region - Barossa Valley, South Australia
9Vintage - 2013
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 14.4%
Closure - Cork
