Wines Canberra District Clonakilla - Ballinderry - 2022

Viniou Reviews

Clonakilla’s 2022 Cuvée Ballinderry is a red blend from the famed Canberra District in New South Wales, Australia. This cuvée typically draws on Bordeaux-inspired varietals, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, crafted with meticulous attention to express both varietal character and a clear sense of place. The 2022 vintage benefited from a relatively cool growing season, which encouraged slow, even grape ripening and has delivered a wine of notable freshness, structure, and aromatic precision. Vinification at Clonakilla is characterised by gentle handling, with fermentation in open vats and judicious use of French oak, highlighting the fruit’s vibrancy whilst enabling supple tannin integration. The resulting wine displays an enticing bouquet of cassis, black cherry and subtle notes of cedar and graphite, with a palate defined by crisp acidity, refined tannins, and persistent length.

The Canberra District, where this wine is produced, is a cool-climate region, nestled on the elevated slopes surrounding the capital city. The area’s vineyards typically range between 600 and 800 metres above sea level, which, combined with the region’s continental influence, results in considerable diurnal temperature variation—crucial for the development of aromatic complexity and vibrancy in red wines. The soils here are ancient, with a predominance of decomposed granite and clay, offering excellent drainage and imparting a distinctive mineral character to the wines. Since its modern viticultural revival in the 1970s, Canberra District has become one of Australia’s most dynamic cool-climate regions, renowned for its elegant expressions of both Rhône and Bordeaux varietals.

The freshness and structure of the Cuvée Ballinderry make it an exceptionally versatile food wine. It pairs beautifully with herb-crusted lamb cutlets, roast beef with a red wine jus, or a classic French duck confit, allowing its freshness and polished tannins to shine. Regionally-inspired Australian game, such as kangaroo or venison, grilled or braised, would offer another rewarding pairing. For a vegetarian option, try it alongside earthy mushroom risotto or grilled aubergine dishes.

To enjoy this wine at its best, I recommend serving it just below room temperature, ideally at 16-18°C. Decanting for around an hour before serving will allow the wine to unfurl its aromatic complexity and silken texture. This will make for a truly rewarding tasting experience, whether enjoyed now or after a few years of cellaring.