Spinifex Papillon 2023

Spinifex Papillon is a Grenache-led red blend from old dry-grown bush vines across the Barossa Valley.

Grenache takes the lead in 2023 at 66 per cent, filled out by Cinsault and a splash of Counoise. The Grenache block at Vine Vale was planted around 1890 into deep, coarse sand; the Cinsault comes from 1910 vines in the red clay of Ebenezer, and the Counoise from a younger Vine Vale planting. Part of the Grenache went into the fermenter as whole bunches, part as a mix of bunches and berries, while the Cinsault and Counoise were handled as berries. Macerations were long and unhurried, and maturation happened in large-format oak and stainless tanks. Pete Schell has been refining this style for two decades.

Perfumed and mid-weight: raspberry, rose petal, white pepper. The flavour is full but the frame stays slim and fresh. Drink it at 14 to 16 degrees, alongside grilled quail, a mushroom risotto or slow-cooked pork shoulder.

*Every effort is made to ensure the current vintage is accurate; however, variations can occur. If you are after a specific vintage, please contact us prior to ordering.