14-Jul-2014
As one of the most consistent and successful wine producers in Central Otago, Rockburn could be forgiven if they kept to their winning formula. But as with all winners, Rockburn and winemaker Malcolm Rees-Francis continue to look forward and push the boundaries. The latest releases show Malcolm’s 10 years of accumulated experience at Rockburn and familiarity with the company’s vineyards. Combined with the excellent 2012 and 2013 vintages, Malcolm has made wines that "represent some of the most fun I’ve had in my career so far” he states. This indicates the confidence level at which he is working. Here I review three of these ‘fun’ wines: a 2013 Fumé Blanc, that he calls the ‘Anti-Savvy’ that ‘throws the gauntlet down’ in a very atypical style to the norm, the ‘regular’ Pinot Noir 2012, from a warm season, and the reserve-styled 2012 ‘Ten Barrels’ Pinot Noir made solely from Gibbston fruit, thus showcasing that particular terroir. www.rockburn.co.nz
