Rockford have succeeded strongly here with their 2010 vintage of the “Rod & Spur” cabernet shiraz, a blend of 50.5% shiraz and 49.5% cabernet sauvignon.  A pronounced intensity purple in the glass, the wine opens to refined aromatics of plums, crushed rock, integrated oak and Christmas cake.  The palate has ripe tannins, a full bodied impression and flavours of spiced plums and some good length.  This is a good to very good release of Rockford due to its complexity, length and balance of fruit.  It is a wine that doesn’t overpower, but engages and persuades.  This wine will certainly age well, and is one that I will be buying.

Rating: Very Good, Abv: 14.5%, Price: $30, Vendors: Check http://www.wine-searcher.com/, Website: http://www.rockfordwines.com.au, Tasted: 2013