Planted between 2001 and 2018, Rockwood Vineyard sits in the challenging high-altitude north-eastern corner of the Watervale sub-region. This A-Grade Certified Organic and Biodynamic site is viticulturally demanding, with hard red rock and variable soils that differ dramatically from nearby Springvale.

The vineyard tells four distinct stories across its terrain.

From the eastern boundary, a stony section rated ‘marginal’ for viticulture hosts two fiano clones. These become the exclusive source for our Apiana wine.

Fifty metres west lies the narrow birthplace of ‘Alea’—named after the Greek goddess. This 300-metre corridor of hard red rock with poor orange/red topsoil seemed unlikely for riesling, yet Jeffrey believed in its potential. The first grapes reminded him of great European rieslings, inspiring a more European winemaking approach.

Eleven rows bordering the shiraz feature the rare ‘Geisenheim 110’ riesling clone, planted ungrafted in silty loam over red rock. These own-rooted vines produce smaller berries, creating wines that are less fruity but extraordinarily complex and persistent.

Finally, shiraz (the unusual ‘Tahbilk’ clone) and Sicilian nero d’avola occupy eleven rows for ‘Nereus’ production—just enough to craft this unique blend.

Four zones, four varieties, one unforgiving site that rewards with complexity.