Product Description:
Cool-climate Chardonnay with precision, poise and plenty to say.
Clonakilla’s 2024 Chardonnay is a standout example of high-altitude winemaking, sourced from the Johansen family vineyards in Tumbarumba, sitting 700 metres above sea level. Best known for their benchmark Shiraz Viognier, Clonakilla quietly continues to deliver one of the most compelling Chardonnays in the country—elegant, textural, and full of nuance.
Whole-bunch pressed and fermented in French oak puncheons (30% new), the 2024 vintage hums with restrained citrus, white peach, hazelnut and jasmine florals. It’s taut yet layered, with a core of mineral acidity and creamy texture that builds with every sip. Subtle struck match and ginger flicker through the finish, but never overwhelm. This is cool-climate finesse with undeniable energy.
Drink now with spanner crab or roast chicken, or cellar for up to 10 years as the wine deepens in complexity.
Maker
Clonakilla is a family-owned winery with a legacy that dates back to 1971, when Dr. John Kirk, an Irish biochemist, established the vineyard in Murrumbateman, New South Wales. Inspired by a 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 Clonakilla Shiraz Viognier, first produced in 1992 by Dr. Kirk’s son Tim, was inspired by a visit to France’s Côte-Rôtie, where Tim discovered the art of co-fermenting Shiraz with Viognier. This innovation added a distinctive aromatic complexity and finesse to the wine, establishing Clonakilla Shiraz Viognier as an Australian icon.
Today, Clonakilla is led by Tim Kirk, who, along with his wife Lara, has expanded the winery’s influence while maintaining the family’s dedication to crafting wines that embody elegance, complexity, and a sense of place. The Kirks’ commitment to quality is evident in each vintage, and Clonakilla wines continue to garner acclaim and awards globally. With a range that includes Shiraz Viognier, Riesling, Chardonnay, and Rhône-inspired blends, Clonakilla’s portfolio celebrates the distinct character of each grape variety and vineyard site. The Clonakilla story is one of passion, family heritage, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in winemaking, cementing its reputation as one of Australia’s premier cool-climate wine producers.
Philosophy
At Clonakilla, the philosophy is simple yet profound: to capture the essence of the land and present it in its purest form. Located in the Murrumbateman region of New South Wales, Clonakilla’s vineyards are planted on rich, well-drained soils that have evolved over thousands of years, with a unique combination of red parna and decomposed volcanic clay. This terroir, coupled with a cool climate and ideal sunlight, allows the vines to thrive and develop complex flavours. Guided by a deep belief in the importance of terroir, Tim and John Kirk have dedicated themselves to crafting wines that reflect this exceptional landscape. From careful vineyard management to minimal intervention in the winery, every step is designed to showcase the uniqueness of the land.
The result is a portfolio of wines that embody elegance, complexity, and authenticity. Clonakilla wines are more than just a product; they are a reflection of the journey from vine to bottle, created with a commitment to quality that has defined the estate since its founding in 1971. Each vintage tells the story of the land, capturing its beauty, nobility, and individuality. It is this dedication to excellence and respect for nature that has made Clonakilla one of Australia's most respected cool-climate wine producers, offering wines that are both timeless and innovative.
Tasting Notes
NOSE
– Elegant and complex
White peach, jasmine, hazelnut, cashew and subtle flint.
PALATE
– Taut and textural
Creamy stone fruit, ginger and apricot kernel over a mineral acid spine.
FINISH
– Long and composed
Silky yet precise, with a gentle oak echo and fresh citrus line.
Reviews & Accolades
This is all class. An absolute belter... real energy and excellent length here. Love it. – Ken Gargett, Winepilot
Balance, fruit power, length and complexity; it’s a standout... custard apple, crème fraîche, stonefruit, flint and smoked bacon. – Campbell Mattinson, The Wine Front
Finer Details:
Style - White Wine
Varietal - Chardonnay
Country - Australia
Region - Hilltops, NSW
Vintage - 2024
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 13%
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