Clonakilla

Clonakilla sits in Murrumbateman, about 30 kilometres north of Canberra, and holds the distinction of being one of the Canberra District's pioneering wineries. Established in 1971, it has spent more than five decades building a reputation for cool-climate shiraz and aromatic white varieties that reflect the particular character of this high-altitude region.

The Wines

Clonakilla's focus is tight and deliberate: shiraz, viognier, and riesling. In the Canberra District, where cool nights and warm days extend the growing season and preserve natural acidity, these varieties perform with a precision that sets the region apart from warmer Australian wine zones.

Shiraz is the winery's signature, and it's the cool-climate expression of this variety — typically more refined and structured than its Barossa counterparts — that has brought Clonakilla considerable attention over the years. Viognier, the aromatic Rhône variety often co-fermented with shiraz in this style, is also grown on-site. Riesling rounds out the range, a natural fit for a cool-climate site where acidity and aromatic intensity are hallmarks.

Cellar Door Experience

The cellar door offers a relaxed atmosphere with views across the vineyard. Staff are knowledgeable about both the wines and the region's terroir, and the setting lends itself to unhurried conversation about what makes the Canberra District distinctive.

Tastings are available across Clonakilla's range, and tours are offered for visitors wanting a closer look at the vineyard and winemaking operations. If you're planning a tour or visiting as part of a group, booking ahead is strongly recommended.

A wine shop is located on-site. For any current food or dining options, it's worth checking directly with the winery before your visit, as offerings can vary.

The Vineyard

The Canberra District's elevation is central to its wine character. Cool nights slow ripening and help retain acidity and aromatics in the fruit, while the region's autumn conditions give grapes time to develop complexity before harvest. This environment suits both the delicacy required of good riesling and the structure that distinguishes cool-climate shiraz.

Getting There

Clonakilla is accessible from central Canberra via sealed roads — a straightforward 30-minute drive north. A car is essential, as public transport to the Canberra District is limited. On-site parking is available for standard vehicles; if you're travelling by caravan or coach, contact the winery ahead of time to confirm access arrangements.

Visitor Tips

• Book ahead for tours and group tastings — walk-ins may be accommodated, but availability isn't guaranteed
• Allow 1.5 to 2 hours if you plan to do both a tasting and a tour
• Autumn (March–May) is a particularly good time to visit, with mild weather and harvest activity in the region; spring (September–October) is also pleasant
• Weekdays tend to be quieter than weekends, and visits outside school holidays will mean fewer crowds
• The Canberra District has a number of other cellar doors within 20 to 30 minutes' drive — Clonakilla makes a natural anchor for a multi-winery day trip
• Check the Clonakilla website before visiting for current hours, events, and any seasonal tastings