Rockford Wines, founded by Robert O’Callaghan in 1984, is one of the Barossa Valley’s most revered traditional producers. The Basket Press Shiraz is their flagship wine—crafted using time-honoured techniques, including hand-picked fruit, open fermentation, basket pressing, and maturation in seasoned oak casks. It is a benchmark for classic Barossa Shiraz and among Australia’s most collectible wines.
Vineyard
Sourced from a network of old, dry-grown Shiraz vineyards across the Barossa Valley, some over a century old, the Basket Press reflects the region’s heart and heritage. Each vineyard contributes depth, balance, and character, resulting in a wine that captures both the richness of the Barossa and Rockford’s artisanal craftsmanship.
Vintage
2019 was one of the lowest-yielding vintages in decades due to dry conditions, but the quality of fruit was exceptional. Smaller berries delivered extraordinary concentration and purity, producing a Basket Press Shiraz of great depth and structural integrity. Despite the challenging season, this vintage is considered one of the most refined and age-worthy in recent years.
Tasting Notes
The 2019 Basket Press Shiraz shows deep crimson colour with a lifted nose of blackberry, plum, spice, and mocha. The palate is rich yet balanced, combining ripe black fruit with hints of chocolate, tobacco, and savoury oak. Silky tannins and fine acidity provide structure and poise, leading to a long, lingering finish. It’s a wine that perfectly expresses both power and elegance—Rockford’s signature style.
Critics’ Acclaim
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97 points – James Halliday
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96 points – The Wine Front
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95 points – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
Highly praised for its concentration, balance, and traditional craftsmanship, the 2019 vintage continues the Basket Press legacy of excellence.
Technical Information
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Region: Barossa Valley, South Australia
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Variety: 100% Shiraz
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Alcohol: ~14.5%
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Maturation: 24 months in seasoned French and American oak casks
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Closure: Cork
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Drinking Window: 2024–2045+
A Collectible Gem
The 2019 Rockford Basket Press Shiraz is a stunning expression of Barossa tradition—deep, structured, and seamlessly balanced. Crafted from century-old vines and matured with patience, it embodies the soul of the region and stands as a must-have collectible for any Australian fine wine enthusiast.
