Kilikanoon Winery, located in South Australia’s prestigious Clare Valley, has garnered international acclaim for its exceptional range of wines, epitomising the region’s distinctive terroir and winemaking tradition. Established in 1997 by winemaker Kevin Mitchell, Kilikanoon has rooted itself in a commitment to producing premium, handcrafted wines that authentically express the character of the vineyards from which they originate.
The winery's name, Kilikanoon, is derived from the property's original cottage name, which is based on an Aboriginal word. Nestled amidst the rugged landscapes and ancient soils of the Clare Valley, Kilikanoon has access to some of the region’s oldest and most unique vineyards, many of which are planted with aged, low-yielding vines. These vines contribute to the intensity, complexity, and depth of flavour found in Kilikanoon’s wines.
Kevin Mitchell, Kilikanoon’s founder and chief winemaker, comes from a family with a long history in viticulture, dating back to the 1800s. With this rich heritage and his formal training in winemaking, Kevin has infused Kilikanoon with a philosophy that merges traditional methods with modern innovations, creating a unique and compelling portfolio of wines.
The Clare Valley’s continental climate, characterised by cool nights and warm, dry days, fosters a prolonged ripening period for the grapes, enhancing their flavour development while retaining essential acidity. This climate, in combination with the valley’s diverse soil types, ranging from terra rossa to stony schist, provides an ideal environment for cultivating a variety of premium grape varieties.
Kilikanoon’s speciality lies in Shiraz and Riesling, two varieties that thrive in the Clare Valley’s terroir. The winery’s portfolio, however, spans a wide array of styles and varieties, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, and Semillon, showcasing the versatility and richness of the region.
The winemaking process at Kilikanoon is marked by meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to quality at every stage. Grapes are hand-harvested, ensuring that only the finest fruit is selected for production. In the winery, minimal intervention techniques are employed, allowing the natural characteristics of the grapes and the influence of the vineyard sites to shine through in the finished wines.
One of Kilikanoon’s most renowned wines is the Oracle Shiraz, a powerful and elegant expression of Clare Valley Shiraz that has consistently received critical acclaim and won numerous awards. This wine encapsulates the Kilikanoon philosophy, demonstrating the synergy between site, grape variety, and winemaking craftsmanship.
The winery’s dedication to excellence has not gone unnoticed. Kilikanoon has received numerous accolades, both nationally and internationally, solidifying its reputation as one of Australia’s leading wineries. In 2013, Kilikanoon was named Australian Winery of the Year by James Halliday, one of the country’s most respected wine critics, a testament to the winery’s unwavering commitment to quality.
Aside from its impressive range of wines, Kilikanoon also offers a memorable visitor experience. The winery’s cellar door, set against the stunning backdrop of the Clare Valley, invites guests to taste through the Kilikanoon range in a welcoming and informative setting. The knowledgeable staff provides insight into the winemaking process, the vineyards, and the history of Kilikanoon, creating a connection between the wines and the unique story of the winery.
Community and sustainability are central to Kilikanoon’s ethos. The winery actively participates in responsible land stewardship, ensuring that its practices contribute to the long-term health and vitality of the vineyards and the surrounding ecosystem.
Kilikanoon Winery stands as a beacon of quality and integrity in the Australian wine industry. Through its commitment to producing wines that reflect the character of its vineyards, its dedication to sustainable practices, and its deep connection to the Clare Valley region, Kilikanoon has established itself as a winery of distinction, consistently delivering wines of exceptional quality and character. Whether for the seasoned connoisseur or the casual wine lover, a visit to Kilikanoon is an exploration of the Clare Valley’s unique terroir and a celebration of the art of winemaking.