2018 Spinifex Lola Vermentino Clairette, Barossa Valley

58% Semillon, 25% Vermentino and 17% Clairette. Semillon has been grown in the Barossa Valley since the 1850s, proof enough of its suitability to grow in the local soils and climate. Schell sources this component from three old Barossa vineyards of 60, 70 and 90 years old. By comparison, Clairette is a relative newcomer to the valley, and according to Pete, “… shows great potential: the berries are tough, easily coping with the warm dusty winds of the Barossan summers, plus, being a late ripener it retains good acidity and holds its freshness.” Finally, the Vermentino also brings freshness while simultaneously piling on texture. For this, Schell goes to a small vineyard growing on hard, ironstone-rich soil in one of the highest parts of Koonunga Hill in Barossa's extreme north.

All parcels were hand-harvested, bunches chilled prior to crushing and macerations varied from two up to 24 hours prior to pressing. All fermentations were conducted with indigenous yeasts in a combination of old French oak barriques, puncheons and stainless steel tanks. Approximately 20% also underwent natural malolactic fermentation. Bottled without filtration, after the components spent ten months on full lees, it's another wonderfully vibrant release of this incomparable blend. Expect a layered, waxy, wine with notes of mixed stone fruit, green fig, and subtle herbal brightness (think Chartreuse) that renders it very hard to stop drinking. As always, a phenomenal bargain.

Lemon barley water scents, steely whiffs too, a touch of green herb and fennel character. Cool and refreshing in the palate, a little slick in texture and a touch of honeyed richness settles mid palate, but the wine is more about that semillon tang and raciness than anything. That being said, lots of detail here, and deliciousness.” 

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