Product Description:
Granite soil, cool air, and an iconic hand. Riesling with presence and poise. Clonakilla Riesling 2025 is a textbook expression of Murrumbateman’s highland terroir—cool climate, decomposed granite, and a producer with deep roots in the region. First planted in 1971 by John Kirk, Clonakilla has grown into one of Australia’s most respected family wineries. Their Riesling is an annual highlight, and in 2025, the conditions aligned for something special: steady warmth, well-timed rainfall, and pristine fruit.
This release delivers a striking mix of purity and power. Bright citrus, ripe green apple and subtle florals lead into a taut, mineral-driven palate. There’s real structure beneath the freshness, with the kind of length and energy that promises a long life ahead. Drink it now for lift and clarity, or cellar for a decade to watch lime and toast characters unfold.
The Maker
Clonakilla is a family-owned winery with a legacy that dates back to 1971, when Dr. John Kirk, an Irish biochemist, established the vineyard in Murrumbateman, New South Wales. Inspired by a love for wine and an understanding of Australia’s unique climate, Dr. Kirk sought to craft wines that showcased the terroir of the region, sparking a journey that would place Clonakilla among Australia’s most respected wineries. The Clonakilla Shiraz Viognier, first produced in 1992 by Dr. Kirk’s son Tim, was inspired by a visit to France’s Côte-Rôtie, where Tim discovered the art of co-fermenting Shiraz with Viognier. This innovation added a distinctive aromatic complexity and finesse to the wine, establishing Clonakilla Shiraz Viognier as an Australian icon.
Today, Clonakilla is led by Tim Kirk, who, along with his wife Lara, has expanded the winery’s influence while maintaining the family’s dedication to crafting wines that embody elegance, complexity, and a sense of place. The Kirks’ commitment to quality is evident in each vintage, and Clonakilla wines continue to garner acclaim and awards globally. With a range that includes Shiraz Viognier, Riesling, Chardonnay, and Rhône-inspired blends, Clonakilla’s portfolio celebrates the distinct character of each grape variety and vineyard site. The Clonakilla story is one of passion, family heritage, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in winemaking, cementing its reputation as one of Australia’s premier cool-climate wine producers.
Philosophy
At Clonakilla, the philosophy is simple yet profound: to capture the essence of the land and present it in its purest form. Located in the Murrumbateman region of New South Wales, Clonakilla’s vineyards are planted on rich, well-drained soils that have evolved over thousands of years, with a unique combination of red parna and decomposed volcanic clay. This terroir, coupled with a cool climate and ideal sunlight, allows the vines to thrive and develop complex flavours. Guided by a deep belief in the importance of terroir, Tim and John Kirk have dedicated themselves to crafting wines that reflect this exceptional landscape. From careful vineyard management to minimal intervention in the winery, every step is designed to showcase the uniqueness of the land.
The result is a portfolio of wines that embody elegance, complexity, and authenticity. Clonakilla wines are more than just a product; they are a reflection of the journey from vine to bottle, created with a commitment to quality that has defined the estate since its founding in 1971. Each vintage tells the story of the land, capturing its beauty, nobility, and individuality. It is this dedication to excellence and respect for nature that has made Clonakilla one of Australia's most respected cool-climate wine producers, offering wines that are both timeless and innovative.
Tasting Notes
NOSE
– Floral and zesty
Subtle white florals meet ripe apple, citrus oil, and crushed stone.
PALATE
– Linear and intense
Lime and orange zest with a racy acid spine and flinty texture.
FINISH
– Persistent and poised
Tonic-like minerality and citrus length echo long after the last sip.
Reviews & Accolades
“This is super young, obviously, but it has a weight and a power and it’s going to turn out to be something. It’s floral in an exotic way, shows notes of orange in with its general lemon-and-lime, and has a slate-like, tonic aspect tucked neatly into its core. This wine is still sorting itself out but presence, power and length are key features.” – Campbell Mattinson, The Wine Front
Finer Details:
Style - White Wine
Varietal - Riesling
Country - Australia
Region - Hilltops, NSW
Vintage - 2025
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 12%
Closure - Screwcap
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