- More than 40 years of dedication to quality
- The oldest Zinfandel planted in Australia
- Vines over 50 & 80 years old
Hidden gem, lucky find, secret weapon... whatever you call this unassuming family-owned and run vineyard, it is brilliant. From 'hobby farm' in 1979 to the quiet powerhouse it is today, Rusden has a small and faithful, almost fanatical, following. Not surprising, given the family's heritage (founder and mother Christine is a 6th generation grape grower) and how they see it as their solemn duty to be custodians of the land for now and future generations.
This ethos is responsible for their remarkable plantings. Rusden boasts vines up to over 80 years old, and is one of the few to commercially produce from pre-phylloxera rootstock (Barossa Valley is among the few regions worldwide to be phylloxera free). Their Zinfandel plants are some of the oldest anywhere in the world.
Now fully in the hands of son & winemaker Christian Canute, who earned his stripes working with renowned names such as the fabled Rockford, Rusden continues its path forward, producing traditional wines that are undeniably good - powerful but restrained, honest expressions of the vintage - whilst forging ahead and breaking new ground.