Rockford needs no introduction, although most of the plaudits go to their red wines. This tawny is a fitting tribute to founder Robert O’Callaghan’s restored 1897 Paddle Steamer Marion; with the very old base wine being refreshed each year with small casks as they reach maturity. The result is packed with gentle dark fruit and dried/caramelized fruit notes and lots of baking spice complexity. You can happily leave an open bottle in a dark place to sip over the course of a few months, though we find it tends to disappear pretty quickly. The dark horse of the Rockford range.

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. The Barossa Valley, located in South Australia, is known for its warm climate and ancient soils, which provide the perfect conditions for Semillon grapes to thrive. The region's hot and dry summers, coupled with cool evenings, allow the grapes to gradually ripen, resulting in wines with exceptional flavour development. Barossa Valley's Semillon its vibrant acidity, which brings a lively and crisp sensation to the palate. The flavors of tropical fruits, like pineapple and passionfruit, take centre stage, providing a burst of juicy sweetness. These fruity notes are often balanced by a hint of herbaceousness, adding complexity and depth to the wine. One of the most remarkable aspects of Barossa Valley's Semillon is its ability to age gracefully. While it is enjoyable in its youth, the wine truly shines with time. As it matures, the vibrant fruit flavors transform into more complex and honeyed characteristics. The acidity mellows, allowing the wine to develop a rich and velvety texture that coats the palate with elegance. Cane Cut Semillon is a luscious and sweet dessert wine made from Semillon grapes that have been left on the vine and allowed to naturally dry and shrivel. This process concentrates the sugars in the grapes, resulting in a rich and honeyed flavour profile. Cane Cut Semillon is known for its golden colour, intense aromas of citrus and tropical fruits and a smooth, velvety texture. It pairs wonderfully with desserts, cheeses, or can be enjoyed on its own as a decadent treat. The Rockford PW Mayflower Cane Cut Semillon 2017 is a truly exceptional dessert wine that is sure to captivate your senses. With its golden hue and enticing aromas, it promises a delightful tasting experience. On the nose, this Cane Cut Semillon reveals a bouquet of luscious honey, ripe apricot and candied orange peel. These enticing aromas are complemented by subtle hints of vanilla and toasted almonds, adding a touch of complexity. As you take your first sip, the wine envelops your palate with a luxurious, velvety texture. The flavors are rich and concentrated, with layers of sweet nectarine, tropical pineapple and ripe peach. The sweetness is perfectly balanced by a vibrant acidity, which adds a refreshing zing to the overall profile. The Rockford PW Mayflower Cane Cut Semillon 2017 showcases impeccable balance and finesse. The lingering finish is a harmonious blend of honeyed sweetness and zesty citrus, leaving a lasting impression. This wine is a true masterpiece, showcasing the expertise and dedication of the winemakers at Rockford. It pairs exceptionally well with a range of desserts, from creamy crème brûlée to tangy lemon tart.

Drawing inspiration from the Rhone Valley in France, this is a fruity, savoury palated wine that shows ripe black berries and plums on the nose, together with hints of savouriness. The mouthfeel is full, dark fruited and talcy with plenty of fleshy berry flavours, evident tannins, licks of dark chocolate and meatiness, and a juicy, savoury-edged finish.