2021 Nova Vita Project K The SPN, Adelaide Hills

A punchy, mid-weighted wine promoting effusiveness of fruit, a burst of sappy energy and plenty of crunch in a contemporary, semi-carbonic vein. Florals, red and purple berries, dried herbs and a slink of sweetness across the finish.

90 points Ned Goodwin MW winecompanion.com.au

Nova Vita Project K The SPN is a deeply personal and expressive Adelaide Hills red that sits right at the intersection of modern Australian wine and old world inspiration. Made in very small quantities, this wine reflects Nova Vita’s experimental, site focused mindset and their willingness to let intuition and season lead the way. The Adelaide Hills setting is key, with elevated vineyards, cool nights and long ripening delivering freshness, perfume and natural tension.

Nova Vita is a collaborative project built around curiosity and minimal interference, and Project K represents one of the more thoughtful and layered expressions in the portfolio. The SPN is a blend driven by Pinot Noir, supported by Shiraz and Nebbiolo, a combination that sounds unusual on paper but makes beautiful sense in the glass. Each variety contributes something essential. Pinot brings perfume and finesse, Shiraz adds depth and spice, and Nebbiolo provides structure, grip and savoury edge. The winemaking is gentle and intuitive, with restrained extraction and subtle oak that frames rather than defines the wine.

Aromatically, the wine is complex and intriguing. Red cherry, wild strawberry and cranberry lead, followed by rose petal, dried herbs and subtle spice. As it opens, darker notes emerge. Blood plum, anise and a faint earthy, ironstone character give the wine depth and seriousness without weight.

On the palate, Nova Vita Project K The SPN is medium bodied, layered and beautifully poised. Bright red fruit flows through the mid palate, supported by fresh acidity and fine, persistent tannins that speak to the Nebbiolo influence. The texture is supple but structured, finishing dry and savoury with lingering spice, red fruit and mineral notes. It feels energetic and alive, with a sense of tension that keeps drawing you back.

This is a wine made for the table. It pairs beautifully with roast chicken, duck, pork, mushroom based dishes or modern Italian inspired cooking. It is drinking beautifully now for its vibrancy and detail, but will also reward short to medium term cellaring, gaining more savoury complexity over time.

Nova Vita Project K The SPN is thoughtful, distinctive and quietly compelling. A modern Adelaide Hills blend that challenges expectations, celebrates site and proves that creativity and balance can coexist effortlessly.