The three most important – for want of a better word – pillars of Australian Shiraz are arguably Penfolds Grange, Henschke Hill of Grace and Clonakilla Shiraz Viognier, with apologies to Tyrrell’s and Mount Pleasant, among others. Given the extraordinary run of quality of Clonakilla Shiraz Viognier over the past (nearly) 20 years it made me wonder, as I consumed a glass or two of this soon-to-be-released 2016, just how far Clonakilla is likely to reach into the mainstream Australian psyche. Will Clonakilla SV ever reach Hill of Grace status in mainstream fame terms? On quality, it should do so. On style, I suspect not. It’s just not big and obvious enough... Clonakilla Shiraz Viognier has lost none of its charm or power over the years, but it has become a lighter, more elegant and more finely drawn wine. The subtle change is clearly evident with this 2016. For a long time we’ve played with the term Burgundian Shiraz, especially in relation to Clonakilla, but the phrase is becoming increasingly apt. This wine is light on its feet, perfumed, exotic, marshalled with fruit and spice, and tannic. It doesn’t wallop you upfront; it saves itself for the finish. It’s not an impetuous wine. There are candied notes here, dry spices, woody anise, a whisper of peppercorn. I would almost describe this wine as crisp, such is its lack of gloop, its finesse, its cleansing run of flavour-infused acidity. This release will age magnificently. Drink to 2036+ 

96 points, Wine Front, August 2017

Medium to deep red colour with a good rim of purple, the bouquet is fresh and pepper/spicy with a decidedly foresty whole-bunch nuance. A lovely complex bouquet, which will only get more so with time. The palate flows on from the nose precisely, with intense spice and berry flavours, a hint of violets and some floral nuances. A perfumed, high-toned, supremely elegant red wine. 

97 points, Real Review, August 2017

The detailed layering in this wine is superb, as is the measured expression of exuberant fruit. Aromas of baking spices, pepper and bright red berry and cherry fruits make for enticing youthful appeal. The palate has an incredibly silky and elegant appeal. Bright red cherry and plum fruits. Drink now to 2030. 

96 points, jamessuckling.com, January 2018

...displays trademark florals, spices and red fruit. It's voluminous without being weighty, fruity and savoury, with licorice, pepper and meaty notes on the long, silky finish. Fans of the style will want to grab extra bottles of this one, as it should drink well for up to two decades. 

95 points, Wine Advocate, February 2018