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 Rockford Eden Valley Riesling 2023 is a testament to the unique terroir of the Eden Valley, high in the Barossa Ranges. This region, punctuated by ancient Red Gums and shallow, rocky soils, produces Riesling with remarkable mineral purity. The vine roots push through cracks in the submerged rock in search of water and scarce nutrients, resulting in a wine that reflects the power and character of the land. Rockford’s commitment to quality shines through in this wine. The 2023 vintage is crafted with complexity, palate weight, and softness, which are achieved by allowing the wine to age in the cellar for one or two years before release. The resulting Riesling offers a balance of fresh fruit and honeyed richness, with a subtle chalky grip and a finish laced with lime, pear, and honey. As noted by Gary Walsh from The Wine Front, it is a flavoursome and generous wine that should be enjoyed young but can also develop further with careful aging. Rockford Wines is a beloved name in the Barossa Valley, founded by Robert O'Callaghan in the 1980s. Known for its commitment to traditional winemaking methods and small-scale, hands-on practices, Rockford has become synonymous with quality and craftsmanship. The winery was established with a vision to preserve the best of the traditional Australian wine trade while fostering strong relationships with local growers. Robert’s deep connections with the community and his emphasis on personal relationships with grape growers have helped Rockford remain a leader in the Barossa Valley. The winery's commitment to using time-honoured methods, such as basket pressing and open-topped slate fermenters, ensures that each wine reflects the unique terroir of the Barossa. Rockford's wines are crafted with passion and precision, capturing the true essence of the region in every bottle. 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. NOSE Chamomile, Honey, Lime The nose is complex and inviting, with aromas of chamomile and delicate floral notes. A hint of honey adds richness, while lime and yuzu provide a fresh, zesty edge that draws you in. PALATE Pineapple, Pear, Dried Dates The palate is full of generous, ripe fruit flavours, including fresh pineapple, pear, and dried dates. The wine has a wonderful balance of richness and freshness, with subtle notes of lavender and a hint of chalky grip that adds texture. FINISH Long, Lime, Honey The finish is long and harmonious, with the lime and honey notes lingering delicately on the palate, making for a refreshing and satisfying conclusion.