Kilikanoon Killerman's Run GSM 2020

Region and Vineyards

The Clare Valley, located in South Australia, is known for its rolling hills, diverse soils, and cool nights, creating ideal conditions for balanced and expressive wines. The grapes for Killerman’s Run are sourced from some of the finest vineyards across the valley, grown on the ancestral lands of the Ngadjuri people. This region’s distinct terroir ensures a vibrant expression of each varietal in the blend:

• Grenache: Grown in sandy soils, it contributes bright red fruit and spice.
• Shiraz: Thrives in loamy, iron-rich soils, adding body and depth.
• Mataro: Planted in stony areas, it brings earthy, savory tones and structure.

The growing season posed challenges due to drought and high temperatures, reducing yields by up to 30%. However, cooler temperatures in the new year provided ideal ripening conditions, preserving acidity and developing concentrated flavors.

Winemaking

Each varietal was vinified separately to preserve its distinct characteristics. After fermentation, the wines were aged for 15 months in seasoned French oak hogsheads, which softened the tannins and enhanced the wine’s elegance. The final blend—50% Grenache, 40% Shiraz, and 10% Mataro—was assembled with meticulous care, resulting in a wine that seamlessly integrates the strengths of each varietal.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep crimson red.
• Aroma: Aromas of red berries, subtle oaky char, sweet spice, and a hint of dried herbs.
• Palate: Vibrant dark cherries and sweet spice from Grenache lead the palate, complemented by plum and chocolate notes from Shiraz. Mataro contributes flavors of cured meats and earthy herbs, all woven together with firm tannins and nuanced oak.

Did You Know?

The name Killerman’s Run pays tribute to a local bushman who lived off the Clare Valley’s natural bounty, embodying a harmonious relationship with the rugged landscape. This wine mirrors his story by blending elements from across the region into a cohesive and balanced whole.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Côte de Bœuf Grillée: The bold tannins and dark fruit notes pair beautifully with the richness of grilled beef.
• Poulet Rôti aux Herbes de Provence: The savory and spiced flavors complement the herbal notes in the wine.
• Charcuterie Platter: Salty cured meats balance the wine’s earthy and fruity tones.
• Canard Laqué: The sweet and umami flavors enhance the wine’s spice and savory profile.

History of Kilikanoon

The story of Kilikanoon begins with Kevin Mitchell, who inherited his passion for viticulture from his father, Mort Mitchell, a legendary grape grower in the Clare Valley. Mort planted Shiraz, Cabernet, Grenache, and Riesling vines in the 1960s in the Leasingham sub-district, which later formed the heart of Kilikanoon’s estate vineyards. The winery itself is housed in a historic 1860s stone cottage, reflecting its deep ties to the Clare Valley’s heritage.

Kevin Mitchell’s vision was to craft wines that showcased the unique microclimates and soils of the Clare Valley. His dedication to minimal intervention winemaking, focusing on low yields and unfiltered wines, has established Kilikanoon as one of Australia’s most acclaimed wineries. Today, Peter Warr, an accomplished winemaker who joined in 2018, continues the legacy of innovation and excellence.

Region and Vineyards

The Clare Valley, with its rolling hills and steep north-south ranges, is one of Australia’s premier wine regions. Kilikanoon’s vineyards span across five sites, including the Golden Hillside in Leasingham, known for its terra rossa soils over limestone. These soils are ideal for producing mineral-driven Rieslings and intensely flavored Shiraz. The winery also sources fruit from neighboring regions such as the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale for select wines.

The region benefits from a continental climate with Mediterranean influences, marked by warm days and cool nights. This unique climate allows for slow, even ripening, enhancing the development of balanced acidity and concentrated flavors in the wines.

Wine Range of Kilikanoon

Kilikanoon’s portfolio is divided into distinct tiers:

• Flagship Wines: Including the prestigious Attunga 1865 Shiraz.
• Reserve Wines: Notable selections such as Oracle Shiraz, The Duke Grenache, and Mort’s Reserve Riesling.
• Regional Wines: Examples include Covenant Shiraz, Blocks Road Cabernet Sauvignon, and Medley GSM.
• Killerman’s Run: A tribute to a legendary Clare Valley bushman, this range includes Shiraz, Riesling, GSM, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
• The Lackey: A more accessible range with wines like Shiraz and Chardonnay.

Kilikanoon is especially lauded for its Rieslings, known for their ability to age gracefully for decades, and its Shirazes, which balance power and finesse with remarkable aging potential.

Did You Know?

Kilikanoon’s Attunga 1865 Shiraz comes from vines planted over 150 years ago, making it one of the oldest vineyards in Australia. This heritage reflects the winery’s commitment to preserving the Clare Valley’s rich winemaking history.