The Clonakilla Collection

Clonakilla

France’s Côte-Rôtie with an Australian Twist - Discovering the Power and Grace Clonakilla Wines
 
Clonakilla’s story began in 1971, the family-owned winery was established in Murrumbateman, New South Wales by the visionary Dr. John Kirk, an Irish biochemist.
 
Originally coming to Australia to take up a research position with the CSIRO Division of Plant Industry in Canberra Dr. John Kirk recollects, ‘as soon as we experienced the Canberra environment, I started asking, “Why aren't there vineyards here?” I thought it was natural, comparing it with Europe. I was always told, “Oh, it's too cold in Canberra, you can't grow vines there.” Well I didn't believe that.’
 
Inspired by an established love for wine and an understanding of Australia’s unique climate, Dr. Kirk sought to craft wines that showcased the terroir of the region, sparking a journey that would place Clonakilla among Australia’s most respected wineries. The fascination would continue through Dr. Kirk’s son Tim.
 
'Alright, let's give it a go' – How Tim Kirk’s Trip to France Altered Clonakilla’s Course and Revolutionised the Australian Wine Landscape
 
Inspired by a visit to France’s Côte-Rôtie, Tim discovered the art of co-fermenting Shiraz with Viognier. ‘I proposed to dad that instead of making a white Viognier that we ferment it with Shiraz. And, to his credit he said, 'alright, let's give it a go'. This innovation added a distinctive aromatic complexity and finesse to the wine. Clonakilla Shiraz Viognier, was first produced in 1992, establishing Clonakilla as an Australian icon. Langton’s Andrew Caillard famously asserts Clonakilla’s Shiraz Viognier as “...one of the most important advances in the development of Australian Shiraz since the release of 1952 Penfolds Grange Hermitage.”
Beyond Shiraz. Clonakilla’s Story ‘Proceeds Poetically’ and the Future is Bright
 
Dr. John Kirk once observed, ‘There's something about our site here. Our job is to capture whatever is truly good, noble, beautiful and unique about this landscape and present it in as pure a form as possible.’ These words continue to light the way for Clonakilla, a foundation and philosophy that drive Clonakilla’s every endeavour.
 
Clonakilla continues to be led by Tim Kirk, who, along with his wife Lara and family, who have expanded the winery’s influence while maintaining the family’s dedication to crafting wines that embody the complexity, purity, and the sense of place. They continue to garnering acclaim locally and internationally. Beyond Shiraz Viognier, the Clonakilla is also renowned for Riesling, Viognier, as well as Rhône-inspired blends, and impressive Cabernets. No matter the grape, Clonakilla wines celebrate the distinct character of each grape variety and vineyard site.
 
The Intensity and Complexity of the Red Wines are Something to Behold
Clonakilla's red wines are typically mid-weight with a bright natural acidity and fine tannins.

Aromatically the reds are spice laden with the signature peppery fragrance for which Clonakilla and the Canberra wine region is renowned. Expect waves of red fruits and savoury herbs, enhanced by the presence of black pepper, subtle aniseed and a deft touch of French oak. While Clonakilla’s white wines are crisp and refreshing with mineral-drive and impressive textural complexity.
 
Secure the Latest and Most Celebrated Vintages By Clonakilla – Enjoy Fast Delivery Australia Wide

We have the latest, but we continue to hunt down Clonakilla’s most sought after vintages of the beloved Shiraz Viognier. Feel free to contact us today for recommendations and expert advice.