clonakilla shiraz viognier 2008 australias best red wine

Clonakilla Shiraz Viognier 2008 is indeed a thrilling wine, and glowing reviews abound.   Here’s two terrific reviews from two leading wine writers in The Age.   “What is Australia’s best red wine? It’s a totally subjective question but some would put this Canberra District Clonakilla shiraz viognier 2008 on the short list … Less structured and more precocious than the great ’07, it’s deliciously subtle and complex. Aromas of plums, raspberries, gentle peppery spice, milk chocolate and restrained florals introduce a beautifully silky, seamless palate. Smooth flavours weave through a long, superfine mouthful, resting on very soft tannins. It develops very well with breathing. Five Stars.”

– Ralph Kyte-Powell, The Age, August 11, 2009

 

“Clonakilla Shiraz Viognier 2008 .. extraordinary colour, deep magenta red with loads of pip and plums with a distinct Canberra spice note. A touch of dried herbs, superb oak integration, plush yet powerful tannins, layered, complex but not so much that it can’t be savoured now, although it’ll be much better in a few years.”

– Jane Faulkner, The Age, August 15, 2009