2002 Rockford Basket Press Shiraz 1.5L Magnum

Rockford has helped preserve a recognisably traditional expression of Barossa Shiraz, with an emphasis on dry-grown fruit, local growers and hands-on winemaking. Basket Press is central to that identity: a wine associated with the character of established Barossa vineyards rather than a pursuit of overt polish or exaggerated oak. This 2002 magnum offers an opportunity to explore that style with substantial bottle age.

The cuvée brings together the generosity of Barossa fruit and a savoury, structured framework. Its name reflects the traditional pressing approach closely associated with Rockford. At this stage, however, the appeal of the 2002 is not simply youthful concentration; it is the possibility of seeing fruit, tannin and the more complex flavours of maturity in balance.

Early assessments of the vintage described plum and dark-berry fruit alongside spice and liquorice. They also noted fine but persistent tannins and balancing acidity, suggesting a wine with definition as well as richness.

In a well-preserved bottle, the original fruit may have evolved towards dried berries and plum, with earthy, leathery or other savoury nuances adding interest. The texture may be more supple than in youth, although mature wine remains individual and sensitive to its storage history.

Allow any sediment to settle before opening and handle the bottle gently. Taste first, then decant carefully if needed to leave the deposit behind. A measured approach to air lets the wine reveal its condition without assuming that a long decant will improve it.

Product Details

• Producer: Rockford
• Wine: Basket Press Shiraz
• Vintage: 2002
• Region: Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia
• Variety: Shiraz
• Style: Dry red wine
• Bottle Size: 1.5L Magnum

Food Pairing

Slow-roasted lamb, beef braised with mushrooms, or roast duck with lentils. Earthy accompaniments and gentle cooking flavours are especially sympathetic to a mature Shiraz.

Bottle Condition

Source condition notes record minor label damage and a just-below-base-of-neck fill level.