The Rockcliffe vineyard is located less than 15kms from the Southern Ocean with the cooling sea creating the perfect conditions for the slow ripening, cool climate styles that symbolize the Great Southern.
In the late 1980s, a local family acquired the property, christened it Matilda's Meadow and commenced the planting of dry grown vines. The Pinot and Chardonnay vines were the first planted in the district in 1987. In 2001 under the direction of new owner Steve Hall, Matilda’s Estate underwent a refurbishment of the cellar door, art gallery and restaurant. In 2007 the building of a brand new winery under the direction of Brenden Smith (winemaker & former founding owner of West Cape Howe Wines), Coby Ladwig (West Cape Howe winemaker) and Luke Eckersley (Forest Hill winemaker) that can facilitate producing 50,000 cases of wine per year has signalled a new stage in the evolution of the brand and business. The three winemakers bring a history of success, enthusiasm and an extensive range of skills to the winery.
What sets you apart from other Great Southern wineries?
Called the new ‘rock stars’ of the Western Australian wine industry by WA bases wine writer Ray Jordan, Rockcliffe has gone from strength to strength. Rockcliffe has been listed as a red star class winery by James Halliday, named as the Most Improved Winery in the West Australian Wine Guide 2014 and was awarded the best small producer at the Perth Royal Wine Show and the Boutique Wine Awards of Western Australia.
Where do you get the inspiration for your label names?
The wine ranges echo local surf place names headed by Rockcliffe itself but extending to Third Reef, Quarram Rocks and Rivage.