2023 Clonakilla Hilltops Shiraz

Hilltops - Exceptional Regional Shiraz

Critical Recognition

93 Points - James Halliday Wine Companion

Outstanding Regional Expression - Exceptional wine showcasing the distinctive character of Hilltops from legendary producer Clonakilla

"Like the finest cool-climate Shiraz from around the world, this exceptional Hilltops wine delivers elegance, complexity and remarkable depth from one of New South Wales' most promising regions."

The 2023 Clonakilla Hilltops Shiraz represents an outstanding expression of regional Shiraz from Australia's most legendary producer. This elegant wine showcases the refined character and complexity that Clonakilla brings to the Hilltops region, creating a wine that's both distinctive and delicious. Crafted with the same meticulous attention to detail as their iconic Canberra District wines, this wine showcases how Clonakilla's expertise can elevate regional Shiraz to extraordinary heights.

Tasting Notes

Appearance: Deep ruby-red with violet highlights and excellent concentration

Aroma: Captivating bouquet of blackberry, dark cherry, and plum, enhanced by notes of white pepper, violet, and subtle spice. The cool-climate character contributes elegance and complexity with layers of dried herbs, earthy minerality, and fine oak integration

Palate: Medium to full-bodied with excellent balance and complexity. Flavors of dark fruit, blackberry, and plum blend harmoniously with spice, cedar, and silky tannins that provide structure and finesse

Finish: Long and satisfying with persistent dark fruit, savoury complexity, and the kind of elegant character that makes Clonakilla Shiraz so compelling

Wine Details

Vintage: 2023
Variety: Shiraz
Region: Hilltops, New South Wales
Producer: Clonakilla
Style: Regional Cool-Climate Shiraz
Serving Temperature: 16-18°C
Cellaring: Drink now or cellar for 10-15 years

Food Pairings

• Roast duck breast with cherry glaze
• Grilled lamb chops with rosemary and herbs
• Slow-braised beef short ribs
• Wild mushroom risotto
• Aged hard cheeses such as aged Cheddar or Comté
• Charcuterie boards with cured meats

Producer Background

Clonakilla has established itself as one of Australia's most legendary producers, renowned for pioneering Shiraz Viognier in the Canberra District. Their approach to winemaking combines respect for Rhône traditions with a commitment to expressing the unique character of cool-climate regions, creating wines that consistently rank among Australia's finest. This Hilltops expression showcases their expertise in regional winemaking.

Regional Character

Hilltops provides exceptional terroir for cool-climate Shiraz production, with high elevation, ancient soils, and a long growing season. The region's unique microclimate and soil composition allow Shiraz to develop elegant fruit character while retaining natural acidity and aromatic complexity, contributing to wines of outstanding character and exceptional quality.

Value & Investment

At $28, this 93-point Shiraz represents exceptional value for a wine from Australia's most legendary producer. With an outstanding score from James Halliday Wine Companion and the Clonakilla name behind it, this wine offers both immediate drinking pleasure and the potential for appreciation as it develops further complexity with age.

Experience legendary winemaking - a 93-point Clonakilla Hilltops Shiraz that delivers elegance, complexity and remarkable depth at exceptional value!