Rockford Basket Press Shiraz 2014 1.5L

Rockford Basket Press Shiraz 2014 1.5LProduct Information: The 2014 Shiraz Basket Press comes from a different Rowland Flat vineyard. Some younger vines, at this site, planted on unirrigated sandy soils, adding freshness and vigour to the wine, but fret not the style remains the same, with big, bold fruit backed by soft oak shadings and ample richness. Interestingly, this wine is a rare indulgence for James Halliday, he tastes well over 5000 wines per year for the Wine Companion, and

Product Information:

The 2014 Shiraz Basket Press comes from a different Rowland Flat vineyard. Some younger vines, at this site, planted on unirrigated sandy soils, adding freshness and vigour to the wine, but fret not the style remains the same, with big, bold fruit backed by soft oak shadings and ample richness.

Interestingly, this wine is a rare indulgence for James Halliday, he tastes well over 5000 wines per year for the Wine Companion, and never is he tempted to swallow during a day-long tasting session, this wine of course is the exception to the rule. And for good reason. It's glossy, heady, with enticing aromas cherry brandy, kirschwasser, rum and raisin with a luxurious feel and finish. How could anyone resist!?

Robert O’Callaghan’s evocative Rockford Basket Press Shiraz is made from grapes sourced from 60 to 140-year-old dry-grown vineyards (most from independent growers) across a range of Barossa soils, altitudes, and micro-climates, the wine represents a rare and important post-colonial Australian aesthetic. This embodiment of the region's rich history and diverse terroir ensures that each bottle of Rockford Basket Press Shiraz carries the legacy of the Barossa, creating an extraordinary sensory experience that speaks to the heritage and artistry of winemaking.

Rockford's flagship wine is the Basket Press Shiraz, aged in French and American oak hogshead barrels for two years prior to release. It is one of Australia's more sought-after wines and has regularly achieved high scores from critics. Acquiring one of these bottles can be quite the challenge, especially when it comes to securing a museum release.

The beauty of the wine truly lies in its unique wine making techniques. Embracing a tradition that sets it apart, every step is meticulously crafted to capture the essence of its origin. The journey begins with hand-picked fruit, carefully selected for its optimal ripeness and quality. Following this, classic Barossa techniques come into play, including the utilization of a 19th-century wooden Bagshaw crusher, open fermentation, and the time-honoured method of basket pressing. As the wine matures, it is nurtured in seasoned 300-litre French and American oak hogsheads, along with 2500-litre vats, allowing it to develop and evolve over a period of two years. This patient process ensures that the wine attains a remarkable balance, as the oak imparts its subtle influence, enhancing the complexity and depth of flavours.

The result is a wine that embodies the rich heritage and craftsmanship of its winemaking techniques. Each sip unveils a symphony of flavours, showcasing the meticulous attention to detail and dedication that goes into creating a truly exceptional wine. Discover the beauty that lies within, as this wine tells a story of tradition, craftsmanship, and the artistry of winemaking.

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 addition to the small home vineyard, Rockford works in partnership with several independent wine growers around Barossa, with vineyards in Kalimna, Ebenezer, Moppa Springs, the Eden Valley and central Barossa. This gives Rockford a wide variety of soil types, mesoclimates and altitudes for its grapes. Many of the vines are planted on their own rootstocks and range up to 130 years old, giving intense, concentrated grapes, and wines with the same attributes. Winemaking is largely traditional, using basket presses, open-topped slate fermenters and a 1880s petrol-driven Bagshaw destemmer/crusher.

Nose - Cherry Brandy, Plum, Rum & Raisin
Cherry, kirsch, rum and raisin. Then some garrigue, raspberry jam and lots of black pepper throughout. 

Palate - Blackberry, Soft & Smooth, Earthy Notes
The balance, mouthfeel and silky purple and black fruits are perfect.

Finish - Dark Chocolate, Black Pepper, Velvety Fruit Finish
It’s full-bodied and velvety on the palate, with a long, fruit-driven finish.

Quintessential Basket Press, bowing to no passing fad or fancy, the high-shouldered, brown glass bottle with Rockford Wines embossed on its base and the distinctive label that will never change because it's so perfect. It's a manifestation of the wine it contains, always very good, this vintage outstanding. I taste well over 5000 wines per year for the Wine Companion, and am never tempted to swallow during a day-long tasting session - well, this wine was the exception to prove the rule. Its balance, mouthfeel and silky purple and black fruits are perfect. - James Halliday, Wine Companion, 99 Points.

The 2014 Shiraz Basket Pressed comes from a different Rowland Flat vineyard from the one that went into this bottling through 2010, with younger vines planted on unirrigated sandy soils. The style remains the same, with big, bold fruit backed by soft oak shadings and ample richness. It’s full-bodied and velvety on the palate, with a long, fruit-driven finish. - Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate, 93 Points.

Glossy, heady, cherry brandy, kirschwasser, rum and raisin, a bit thin in fruit and tannin weight and gummy. Viscous. In saying this, it’s soft and smooth. There’s also nice herbal aspect to it, at first it felt to me like GSM from the south of France with garrigue, raspberry jam and lots of black pepper throughout. Later came the sweet oak and earthy notes and the alcohol was just a bit too obvious to my liking. It’s a style, maybe, can be loved, maybe. - Kasia Sobiesiak, The Wine Front.

The Finer Details
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - Shiraz
Country - Australia
Region - Barossa Valley, South Australia
Vintage - 2014
Bottle Size - 1.5L
ABV - 13.8%
Closure - Cork