O'Riada Shiraz 2019

Sean O’Riada is one of the heroes of modern Ireland. A talented musician and composer, he is credited with taking traditional Irish music out of the kitchens and pubs of Ireland and putting it on the concert stages of the world.

He died, prematurely, in 1971, the year Clonakilla was established by John Kirk. He was John’s cousin.

“It is one of Australian wine’s biggest bargains.” - Nick Ryan

2019 was warm and dry with some well-timed summer rain.

Canberra District did not escape the effects of the drought that gripped much of NSW. Low winter rainfall and a similarly dry spring meant that irrigation systems (in Clonakilla’s case bore fed drippers) were given a thorough work out.

A fortuitous 77mm rain in January followed by 32mm in February not only saved the vintage but set the vines up to deliver some intense, bright fruit characters.