2021 Protero Barbera, Adelaide Hills

What a vibrant wine! Floral scents of dried rose petal, orange blossom, sour cherry, white pepper – a treat. The palate is juicy but light and fresh, some crispness and tartness in sweet cherry juice, orangey acidity, a lick of peppery spice and some choc-minty notes lending a slight creaminess. Overall, you'd say 'very cherry' when tasting this, though, and that's a good thing. It's a delight to drink, fresh, bright, vivacious and distinctly true to the variety.

93 points Mike Bennie winecompanion.com.au

Protero Barbera from the Adelaide Hills is a bold and beautifully expressive take on this classic northern Italian variety. The wine comes from the hands of Stephen Pannell, one of Australia’s most acclaimed winemakers, who has a deep fascination with Mediterranean grapes and their potential in Australian soils.

Originally the name of Pannell’s own vineyard in Gumeracha, “Protero” now represents a focused range of wines celebrating Italian varietals in the cool climate of the Adelaide Hills. Barbera, known for its natural acidity and plush fruit, thrives in this elevated region, where warm days and cool nights stretch the growing season and encourage slow, even ripening.

This is a Barbera with vibrancy and depth. Juicy red cherry, spiced plum, and hints of blood orange meet silky tannins and refreshing acidity. It’s savoury, bright, and food-friendly, with just the right amount of wildness. There’s a touch of earthy spice and bramble on the finish that lingers with warmth and charm.

Ideal with tomato-based pasta dishes, grilled lamb skewers, or eggplant parmigiana. Its energetic acid backbone also makes it a brilliant match for hard cheeses and charcuterie.