While many seek out the Basket Press Shiraz, it would be a disservice to ignore this opulent and concentrated Barossa Cabernet from Rockford. The Rifle Range actually has a lovely elegant and structured bent to it, some real class. A core of blackcurrant that is complimented by savour touches that lift the wine to some extraordinary levels.

Product Information: On one special day each year, the Rockford rescue their friends from their toil in the restaurant and retail trade of Adelaide. Rockford, the legends they are, prise them from thick white linen and smoky kitchens, arm them with "der schnipses" and send them out into the sunshine to pick the Cabernet Sauvignon from the one and a half acre of Home Block. By the time the grapes get to the vintage shed they have been washed by the tears and blood of some very highly skilled chefs and waiters. Of course, it's not all 'hard work'. As a reward their efforts, Rockford sit the crew down to a big Barossa lunch and a few bottles of Rockford's best, then gather to watch the harvest go through the Bagshaw crusher - yes, the same one they use for the fabled Rockford Basket Press Shiraz. After open vat fermentation and being basket pressed, the wine is aged in seasoned French oak hogsheads and large vats for three years. This allows the tannins to soften, colours and flavours to consolidate and achieves a deeply varietal wine that is soft and generous. With a track record of ageing comfortably for 8-10+ years from release, this is a terrific wine for the cellar or share at a big table. Maker: Discover the essence of Barossa Valley's heart in Tanunda at Rockford, where a legacy of tantalizing 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: In 2017, 1250 Magnums of Home Block Cabernet Sauvignon were produced from the small home vineyard. Winemaking is largely traditional, using basket presses, open-topped slate fermenters and a 1880s petrol-driven Bagshaw destemmer/crusher. Nose - Dark Fruits, Truffle, Leafy Underbrush There are tomato-bush and leafy underbrush aromas. Palate - Deep Plum, Blackcurrants, Bramble The palate's sinewy and lean, forward and quite approachable. Finish - Dried Herbs, Chocolate, Plush Tannin Good structure, lovely sweet/ripe cabernet fruit intensity, lingering chocolatey finish with dried herb accents.

Rockford Basket Press Shiraz has garnered a unique and cult following over its lifetime. With its 'old school' brown glass bottle and traditional label, Rockford Basket Press is one for the traditionalists. Big, bold and upfront fruit with all the lashings of chocolate, coffee bean and Christmas cake all have come to adore.

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Robert O'Callaghan's Rockford Basket Press Shiraz is one of the Barossa Valley's most important wines. It entered Langton's Classification of Australian Wine in 2000 and was promoted to the highest 'Exceptional' category in 2005.Basket Press manages to combine the concentration and power of the traditional Barossa Shiraz style of the 1950s and '60s with the supple freshness of contemporary winemaking.It has achieved its high status in a relatively short time: the first vintage was 1984. Rockfords squat, highshouldered brown bottle - reminiscent of 1940s red wine packaging - is instantly recognisable.