Wines Barossa Valley Rockford - Rifle Range - 2022

Rockford’s Rifle Range Cuvée 2022, hailing from the prestigious Barossa Valley in South Australia, showcases the classic style that this region is so celebrated for. While the precise blend is not fully detailed here, Rifle Range traditionally leans towards a rich and robust red, often built around varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and sometimes complemented by Shiraz or other local grapes. The 2022 vintage, bottled in a standard 75cl format, benefits from Rockford's hallmark approach: careful fruit selection, gentle basket-pressing, and traditional vinification techniques designed to capture both varietal purity and the soul of the Barossa. Expect a wine that is deep in colour, with layers of dark berries, cassis, subtle oak influence, and a ripe, rounded structure. The tannins should be assertive yet supple, supporting a generous mouthfeel without overpowering the elegance of the fruit.

Barossa Valley stands among Australia's most revered wine regions, world-renowned for plush red wines and a winemaking heritage stretching back to the 19th century. The climate here is warm and generally dry, with cool nights—an ideal combination for developing ripe, concentrated flavours while retaining essential freshness and structure in the grapes. Soils in Barossa are varied, often comprising rich clays and sandy loams, which contribute additional depth and complexity to the wines. The valley is not only about outstanding terroir; it is also home to a passionate local community, where traditional techniques and multi-generation vineyards play a vital role in the character of the region’s bottlings.

This robust and expressive red wine is well-suited to hearty food pairings. Regional dishes such as slow-cooked lamb with rosemary, grilled beef ribeye, or kangaroo fillet align perfectly with its structure and depth. Mushroom ragù or caramelised root vegetables would also complement its earthier notes, while a mature cheddar or aged Gouda makes for a fine match if you’re favouring cheese.

Serve the Rifle Range Cuvée at 16-18°C, ideally after an hour in a decanter to unlock its full spectrum of aromas and soften the texture. Enjoy over the coming decade, but don’t hesitate to discover its vibrancy even in its youth.