Rockford Local Growers Semillon 2022

Product Information: 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. Maker: Discover the essence of Barossa Valley’s heart in Tanunda at Rockford, where a legacy of tantalising 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: The 2023 Harvest started later, in early March for lighter white crops. March and April were relatively fine, but a few rainfall events caused some disease pressure, keeping both growers and winemakers on their toes with crop management and picking dates. Yields varied across the region. The hard work needed in the vineyard for the 2022/23 season paid off. White wines, particularly with Semillon, this vintage has impressive aromatics, finesse and great natural acidity. Nose – Apple, Lime, Lemongrass Apple, lime and lemongrass, lemon sherbet Palate – Zest, Lemon Bitters, Herbal Hints It’s a zesty affair with some lemon bitters tang, a subtle lemongrass/herbal flavour, powdery texture, and also carries a bit of richness and weight for a light wine. Finish – Tonic bitters, Hay, Lemon Sorbet Finish is good too, again that quinine-like bitterness and a subtle hay character laying largely dormant. One of the most affordable offerings in the Rockford range. Pretty label too. Apple, lime and lemongrass, lemon sherbet (the hard sweets sort). It’s a zesty affair with some lemon bitters tang, a subtle lemongrass/herbal flavour, powdery texture, and also carries a bit of richness and weight for a light wine, if that makes sense. Finish is good too, again that quinine-like bitterness and a subtle hay character laying largely dormant. Good now, though I reckon a little better again with another year or two of bottle age. – Gary Walsh, The Wine Front. The Finer Details Style – White Wine Varietal – Semillon Country – Australia Region – Barossa Valley, South Australia Vintage – 2022 Bottle Size – 750ml ABV – 11.8%