Sarah Ahmed – The Wine Detective

Before I headed down under for Western Australia I’d meant to post my notes from this terrific vertical tasting of Clonakilla Shiraz Viognier – up against the clock it didn’t happen but voila – you’ll find my full report here – better late than never!

I was about to describe Tim Kirk (pictured) as the godfather of Australian Shiraz Viognier blends but it seems  inappropriate when Mr Kirk is a theologian.  Suffice to say that he was inspired by Marcel Guigal and he can hold his head high.  These are wines of breed and finesse that are ageing beautifully.

My stand out wines from a strong field were the 99, 2001, 2003, 2005, 2007 and 2008 Clonakilla Canberra District Shiraz Viognier.  This, the flagship cuvee, today weighs in at a little under £40, comparable with many fine Northern Rhone wines.  Out of my reach save for on special occasions, the good news for those with similarly shallow pockets is that Clonakilla Hilltops Shiraz 2008 is a snip at around £15  – a great example of a nuanced, mid-weight Shiraz from Australia – I was pushed to find one in Western Australia to touch it.

All best

Sarah Ahmed
The Wine Detective