A captivating aroma of ripe grapes hangs in the air. Welcome to Rochford Winery. This isn’t just any winery. It’s a Yarra Valley landmark. Rochford’s story begins in the Macedon Ranges. Helmut Konecsny the owner and CEO established the winery there in the late 1990s. In 2002 he relocated to the Yarra Valley. He purchased a 13-hectare vineyard on Hill Road Coldstream. This marked the true birth of Rochford Wines in its current location.
The old vines planted in 1992 offered incredible potential. Helmut had a vision a place that would captivate the senses. He wanted to create memorable experiences for everyone. His dream is now a reality. Rochford Wines isn’t simply about wine production. It’s a complete Yarra Valley experience.
The winery itself is a marvel of modern architecture. It boasts stunning views of the surrounding vineyards. The building maximizes the picturesque scenery. It was designed to showcase the beauty of the Yarra Valley. Beyond the cellar door and the shop there’s a large restaurant and café. There’s even an expansive natural amphitheatre. This hosts a series of popular summer concerts. These concerts attract thousands of visitors each year. In 2011-2012 alone Rochford welcomed 185000 visitors. 42000 of them were concert goers.
Rochford’s winemaking philosophy is rooted in tradition. They use sustainable practices. The focus is on growing the best possible fruit. Winemaker Marc Lunt handles the grapes gently. This preserves their character. The resulting wines reflect the unique terroir of the Yarra Valley. Their two main passions are Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. They also produce Cabernet Sauvignon. These wines consistently earn high praise.
But Rochford isn’t just about the wine. It’s a destination. It’s a place where you can enjoy a delicious meal. You can relax amidst the beauty of the vineyard. You can attend a concert or simply savour the stunning scenery. It’s a total Yarra Valley experience. A visit to Rochford Winery promises not only exceptional wines but also unforgettable memories.