Description
Elevated granitic slopes surrounding Murrumbateman supply the fruit for Clonakilla’s O’Riada, a cuvée that reflects the Kirk family’s sustained engagement with cool climate Shiraz since the 1970s. Estate and grower parcels contribute to the 2022 blend, rooted in decomposed granite with bands of clay and quartz that provide moderate fertility and reliable drainage. Altitudes exceeding 600 meters introduce pronounced diurnal variation, and vineyard work relies on manual canopy adjustments to guide ripening in this cool inland setting. Grapes are partially destemmed, with whole clusters incorporated according to block conditions, and fermentation takes place in open vessels. Maturation follows in a range of French oak formats selected to support structure without imposing uniformity. The 2022 Clonakilla Canberra District Shiraz O’Riada operates as a regional composite, bringing together multiple hillside sites through a consistent, detail driven cellar approach.