2008 Clonakilla Murrumbateman Syrah
Founded in 1971 by John Kirk, then a Canberra based research scientist, Clonakilla has established a reputation for producing very limited quantities of what many regard as Australia’s premier cool climate Shiraz, Viognier and Shiraz Viognier Blends. Originaly planted to Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon in 1971, Viognier was added in 1978 making Clonakilla a pioneer of this rare Rhone white in Australia.
In 1990 their first straight varietal Shiraz went on to win two gold, one silver and two trophies from three showings. An inspirational journey through the Rhone in 1991 by John’s son Tim (now Winemaker and General Manager) saw the release of Clonakilla’s first Shiraz Viognier blend in 1992 and a series of benchmark Australian Reds was born.
Each year a tiny amounrt of Shiraz from the Murrumbateman vineyard is isolated and blended into the iconic Shiraz Viognier. For the second time since 2006 this amazing parcel of Syrah has been vinified and bottled as a wine in its own right. A wild yeast, whole berry ferment was given three weeks post fermentation maceration to round out the tannins and stabilise colour. 20 months in French oak (40% new) followed, providing
the wine with another layer of intensity and finesse.
Other Reviews…
Black and red fruits combine seamlessly with a strong tar-like quality running through the core; medium-bodied, dark and savoury, with firm tannin taking over the palate and wrestling the dark fruit to the mineral floor; long, chewy, intense and needing time to reveal the inner beauty. Screwcap.
14% alc. Date Tasted Mar 10 Drink 2020
Rating 95
James Halliday - Australian Wine Companion 2011