At a glance

Producer

Rockford Wines

Region

Barossa Valley, South Australia

Grape variety

Shiraz

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$50-70

Tasting profile

Ripe dark fruits (blackberry, plum), spice, leather, and subtle oak-derived vanilla and toast notes.

Evolution: Fruit will integrate with emerging tertiary notes of earth, leather, tobacco, and savory spice over the next 5-10 years.

At peak: Complex, layered dark fruit with polished tannins and well-integrated oak, exhibiting balance and refined structure.

Structure

Acidity

Moderate to high, balancing richness

Tannins

Firm, well-extracted

Alcohol

14.5%

Aging potential

15+ years due to concentrated fruit, balance, and quality of tannin

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2027 to 2055

Optimal window

2023 to 2058

Current status

Approaching Early Maturity

Current condition

The wine is currently showing youthful intensity with rich fruit and firm tannins. It will benefit from additional cellaring to reach full complexity.

The 2018 vintage in Barossa Valley was warm but with enough cool nights to preserve acidity. Rockford's Basket Press Shiraz is made from old vines and traditional techniques, resulting in wine with substantial tannin and acidity structure that supports extended aging and complex development over 15+ years.

Food pairing

Grilled lamb, barbecued beef, game meats, hearty stews, aged cheddar, strong flavored dishes with herbs and spices.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften tannins and open complex aromatics, enhancing early drinking experience.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Rockford Wines employs sustainable farming practices focused on minimal chemical intervention, water conservation, and soil health management. Uses traditional basket press method preserving grape integrity. Packaging is moderate in environmental impact using recyclable glass and minimal paper.

Rockford Wines demonstrates commitment to sustainability through certified sustainable agricultural practices and traditional production methods, which minimize environmental impact. While not fully organic or biodynamic certified, the producer practices water conservation and energy efficiency. Packaging is thoughtful but not zero waste. Carbon footprint is typical for Barossa wines, with impacts mostly from international transport.