Clonakilla

Clonakilla is a pioneering winery in the Canberra District, not the Hunter Valley, but its reputation for producing world-class Shiraz-Viognier makes it a must-visit for any serious oenophile exploring New South Wales. Set against a backdrop of rolling hills and eucalyptus-dotted landscapes, the cellar door offers an intimate, educational tasting experience that showcases the cool-climate elegance for which the region is famous. The story of Clonakilla is one of innovation—founder John Kirk planted the first Shiraz vines here in 1971, and the winery has since become synonymous with the Rhône-style blends that put Canberra on the global wine map.

Highlights & What to See

• Shiraz-Viognier Tasting: The flagship wine, often hailed as Australia’s answer to Côte-Rôtie, with perfumed aromatics and silky tannins—a revelation for wine lovers.
• Cellar Door: A modern, light-filled space with panoramic views over the vines; the knowledgeable staff guide you through a range of wines, from Riesling to Tempranillo.
• The Vineyard Walk: A short self-guided stroll through the original 1971 plantings and newer blocks, with interpretive signs explaining the site’s geology and viticulture.
• Local Produce Pairings: On weekends, often accompanied by regional cheeses and charcuterie, making for a perfect lazy afternoon.
• Nearby Murrumbateman: While not part of the winery, the surrounding area is dotted with other cellar doors worth visiting, such as Brindabella Hills and Helm Wines.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours for a leisurely tasting and a wander through the vineyard. If you’re pairing the visit with other nearby wineries, a half-day is ample to explore Murrumbateman’s wine trail. For those driving from Canberra (just 30 minutes away), it fits neatly into a morning or afternoon outing. Wine enthusiasts could easily linger longer, especially if you time your visit for a release event or the annual open day.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Canberra: Australia’s capital, with its world-class museums, galleries, and dining scene, is an obvious base for a day trip to the wine region.
• Murrumbateman: A cluster of cellar doors within a 10-minute drive, including Helm Wines, Brindabella Hills, and Lerida Estate, ideal for a self-drive wine tour.
• Lake George: A striking, often-dry lake on the way from Canberra, offering a dramatic landscape and a stop at the historic Lake George Hotel.
• Yass: A charming historic town with a main street of sandstone buildings, antique shops, and the Yass Valley Way, perfect for a lunch break.
• Brindabella National Park: For those wanting to combine wine with walking, this park offers trails through subalpine forests and wildflower displays in spring.

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