Poise, perfume, and quiet power define one of Australia’s most iconic cool-climate reds. Clonakilla Shiraz Viognier 2002 is a landmark expression from the Canberra District, a wine that helped redefine Australian Shiraz through its inspiration from the Northern Rhône, particularly Côte-Rôtie. Crafted by Tim Kirk, this wine blends Shiraz with a small proportion of co-fermented Viognier, enhancing aromatic lift and textural finesse. The 2002 vintage was shaped by a challenging growing season, resulting in lower yields but exceptional concentration and intensity.
In the glass, the wine reveals a medium-bodied yet deeply complex profile, marked by purity and aromatic detail rather than weight. Fragrant red and dark fruits are interwoven with spice, florals, and savoury elements, creating a layered and evolving bouquet. The Viognier component contributes lifted notes of apricot blossom and exotic spice, while also softening the tannin profile. On the palate, the wine is finely structured, with silky tannins and vibrant acidity providing both tension and length. There is a seamless integration of fruit, oak, and savoury nuance, reflecting meticulous vineyard and winery practices. As the wine opens, it reveals further complexity with pepper, earth, and subtle game notes adding depth. The 2002 vintage shows both immediate charm and the capacity for long-term evolution, standing as a testament to Clonakilla’s refined, site-driven approach. It pairs beautifully with dishes such as roasted duck, lamb, or mushroom-based cuisine.
Poise, perfume, and quiet power define one of Australia’s most iconic cool-climate reds. Clonakilla Shiraz Viognier 2002 is a landmark expression from the Canberra District, a wine that helped redefine Australian Shiraz through its inspiration from the Northern Rhône, particularly Côte-Rôtie. Crafted by Tim Kirk, this wine blends Shiraz with a small proportion of co-fermented Viognier, enhancing aromatic lift and textural finesse. The 2002 vintage was shaped by a challenging growing season, resulting in lower yields but exceptional concentration and intensity.
In the glass, the wine reveals a medium-bodied yet deeply complex profile, marked by purity and aromatic detail rather than weight. Fragrant red and dark fruits are interwoven with spice, florals, and savoury elements, creating a layered and evolving bouquet. The Viognier component contributes lifted notes of apricot blossom and exotic spice, while also softening the tannin profile. On the palate, the wine is finely structured, with silky tannins and vibrant acidity providing both tension and length. There is a seamless integration of fruit, oak, and savoury nuance, reflecting meticulous vineyard and winery practices. As the wine opens, it reveals further complexity with pepper, earth, and subtle game notes adding depth. The 2002 vintage shows both immediate charm and the capacity for long-term evolution, standing as a testament to Clonakilla’s refined, site-driven approach. It pairs beautifully with dishes such as roasted duck, lamb, or mushroom-based cuisine.
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