Clonakilla Shiraz - Viognier 2023

The wine's initial aroma reveals a cohesive balance of violet and white pepper notes, augmented by light undertones of rose petals on the palate. A medium-bodied wine with a smooth, rounded texture, it shares a similar profile with Gigondas from a single vineyard Grenache. The conclusion is moderate, with a brief, yet satisfying, lingering quality. However, the wine ultimately falls short in terms of variation, resulting in a predictable, if pleasant, enjoying experience.

Profound experience, as always, with the 2008 Clonakilla Shiraz Viognier. The intricacy of its personality is slowly unfolding, much like a full bodied tapestry. A 2-hour decanting process allowed the aromatic nuances to mature, yielding a smoky, musky perfume with a understated spicy background flavor - a quintessential Burgundian character. On the palate, the tannins are remarkably smooth, with a polished smoothness that gives way to a brooding red fruit profile that gradually evolves from sweet to savory. The follow through is firm yet refined, with a pleasing tannic presence.

Fine wine with impeccable balance, floral and M-bodied, with a fantastic long lingering aftertaste. in contrast not as rich as the prior bottle, it remains enjoyable, albeit slightly less than the prior experience.