Product Description:
Clonakilla’s first varietal, reborn—Viognier with lift, layers and legacy. Clonakilla Viognier 2024 is a tribute to the varietal that started it all. Long before their Shiraz Viognier became a benchmark, Dr. John Kirk planted 100 rootlings of Viognier in 1986, making Clonakilla one of the first in Australia to explore its potential. This modern release returns to those origins, delivering a barrel-fermented, textural white that captures the grape’s full aromatic range while dialling in elegance and drive.
Aged for 12 months on lees in 600L French demi-muids, this is not your typical oily Viognier. Expect ripe stone fruit, ginger spice and florals up front, with a layered palate that remains fresh and focused. A subtle tannin thread on the finish adds backbone, giving the wine form as well as charm. It’s a wine to enjoy now for its generosity, or to cellar for a few years to watch complexity build.
The 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
– Expressive and exotic
Apricot, white peach and honeysuckle with hints of ginger and clove.
PALATE
– Rich yet defined
A plush mid-palate of stone fruits and spice, balanced by leesy depth and quiet power.
FINISH
– Structured and long
Gentle phenolic grip and soft acidity pull the wine through to a savoury, drying finish.
Finer Details:
Style - White Wine
Varietal - Viognier
Country - Australia
Region - Hilltops, NSW
Vintage - 2024
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 13.5%
Closure - Screwcap
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