In this episode, I sit down with Tim Kirk, chief winemaker at Clonakilla, one of Australia’s most acclaimed wineries. Known for crafting the groundbreaking Shiraz Viognier—a wine once hailed as "one of the most important advances in Australian Shiraz since Penfolds Grange"—Tim brings a rare blend of artistry, humility, and spiritual depth to the world of wine.
Originally trained in theology, Tim shares how his faith continues to shape his approach to winemaking. We explore the almost miraculous events that led to the creation of Clonakilla’s flagship wine, the story of his family’s legacy in the Canberra District, and what makes this cool-climate region so special.
This is more than a conversation about wine — it's about calling, creativity, and the deep connections between land, spirit, and the people who tend to both.
Whether you're in the wine trade or just love a good story, this episode is a must-listen.
Tim Kirk — Creating An Icon and the Sacred Side of Winemaking
⏱️ Episode Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction: The Theology of Wine
00:47 Meet Tim Kirk: Chief Winemaker at Clonakilla
01:27 Early Memories and Family Background
03:12 The Vision for Clonakilla
08:43 The Struggles and Successes of Early Winemaking
10:12 Tim's Journey: From Theology to Winemaking
15:42 The Shiraz Viognier Story
26:52 The Canberra District Terroir
27:13 Ancient Volcanic Flows and Soil Composition
27:45 The Mystery of Red Clay
29:30 Climate and Its Impact on Vineyards
31:13 The Role of Cool Nights in Wine Quality
33:35 Minimal Intervention Winemaking Philosophy
36:12 The Influence of Whole Bunch Fermentation
39:14 Balancing Tradition and Innovation in Winemaking
43:34 The Spiritual Connection to Winemaking
50:00 Looking to the Future: Stewardship and Legacy
52:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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Champagne: Cork Pop and Pour by ultradust -- https://freesound.org/s/166923/ -- License: Attribution 4.0
Episode 4