At a glance

Producer

Clonakilla

Region

Canberra District, New South Wales, Australia

Grape variety

Shiraz (Syrah) with Viognier

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

AUD $140-$180 (en primeur estimate)

Tasting profile

Vivid red and black cherry, violet, lifted floral notes (from Viognier), black pepper, fresh spice, underlying savory complexity.

Evolution: Fruit and floral lift will integrate with savory/meaty complexity; tannins and acidity will soften, earth and spice will emerge.

At peak: Silky, complex palate showing harmony of fruit, floral aromatics, fine tannic structure, and signature spice—highly expressive, classic cool-climate style.

Structure

Acidity

Fresh, moderate to high; gives longevity and vibrancy

Tannins

Medium to high, very fine-grained with some youthful grip

Alcohol

13-14% ABV (typical for the producer/vintage)

Aging potential

Very high; can age gracefully for 15-20 years under good conditions

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2032 to 2040

Optimal window

2028 to 2045

Current status

Very youthful, suitable for early review or cellaring

Current condition

Wine is in barrel or just bottled; not yet released for retail consumption. Tightly wound primary fruit, vibrant acidity, pronounced tannins.

Clonakilla’s Shiraz Viognier is regarded as one of Australia’s best cool-climate Syrahs, modeled after Côte-Rôtie. Its balance of acidity, sophisticated tannins, and careful inclusion of Viognier (for perfume and finesse) make it a benchmark for graceful aging and expressive aromatics. From a favorable recent run of vintages, the 2024 will reward cellaring and likely follow the house style's graceful evolution.

Food pairing

Lamb (roast or rack), duck with plum sauce, game birds, charcuterie, Asian spiced beef, aged hard cheeses.

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — The wine has medium to high tannins and is still youthful, which can benefit from aeration to soften the tannins and enhance the aromatic profile.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Low-input sustainable vineyard management; hand-harvested fruit; minimal chemical use; focus on soil health; energy-efficient winery practices; lightweight glass bottles; on-site water management to recycle and minimize use.

Clonakilla prioritizes soil and ecosystem health, eschewing chemical herbicides/pesticides where possible, and uses efficient irrigation and energy systems. Active member in Australia's national sustainability program, with clear, transparent practices but not fully certified organic/biodynamic. Strong community involvement and environmental stewardship, though typical shipping for exports creates a higher carbon load than regional/local wines.