Clonakilla Wines

By Tarn Morrow

Clonakilla is setting the benchmark! Not since the first release of Penfolds Grange in 1952 has there been an Australian Shiraz that has been compelling enough to be benchmarked against this world-class red.

The remarkable journey for the Clonakilla vineyard now sees it as one of the most celebrated in the country, right here in the Canberra district.

First establishing the vineyard in Murrumbateman back in 1971, John Kirk never imagined that the first vines he planted would achieve such success. In particular, the Shiraz Viognier has become one of Australia’s most admired and hallmarked reds.

It is only fitting that this Spring here in Canberra, is not just exciting for colourful displays of blossoms and the excitement of warmer months ahead, but the highly anticipated release of the Clonakilla 2015 Shiraz Viognier. Highly anticipated because you could not get better conditions than those experienced in 2015…a winemakers dream!

Chief winemaker Tim Kirk discusses the 2015 Shiraz Viognier…“we knew we were in for something special”. “The grapes ripened like a dream”. “Words cannot describe it…we need to reach for something more than words”.

Australia’s number one wine critic also agrees: James Halliday comments, “It is a thinker’s wine, it stops you, draws you in and captivates. Incredibly detailed and floral-scented, the sumptuous and finely poised palate is a masterpiece.”

When visiting Canberra next, make a point to visit the newly renovated Cellar Door. By car, it’s 30 minutes drive from Canberra. The cellar door is open for tastings and sales 10am to 5pm daily.

I encourage you to also visit Capitol Bar and Grill at QT Canberra where you will find several of the Clonakilla labels.

Photo shoot with John Kirk in the setting sun amongst our Riesling vines. Thanks @kimmakesphotos #visitcanberra #winterincanberra

A post shared by Clonakilla Wines (@clonakillawines) on Jun 28, 2016 at 11:53pm PDT