Shiraz
75cl * Vegan * 13.0% ABV * Canberra, Australia
Dr John Kirk founded Clonakilla ('meadow of the church') in 1971 after scientific curiosity led him to question why vines were not being grown in this area. This has a real Rhone-like quality to it: there are plenty of signature ripe dark fruit flavours to enjoy here, including cherries, anise and blackberries. Good structure and a broad spiced/savoury character on the palate, with a spicy and rich finish. Will age well for up to a decade. Try with a slow-cooked beef casserole.
Vintage 2021 was marked by a cooler than average summer punctuated by regular rainfall which slowed the ripening and gave expression to a delicious cool-climate elegance in the wine.
"A black fruit and liquorice-spiked beauty with aromatherapeutic peppercorn embellishments among the dynamic, lifted flavours. This wine is already drinking, and it feels keen and match-fit in the glass." Matthew Jukes, 100 Best Australian Wines 2022/23 Report