2025 Spinifex Lola Semillon Clairette Ugni Blanc Vermentino, Barossa Valley

Pete Schell is crafting a flock of exciting whites from the Barossa. Lola is the original and, some would say, most multi-layered release. Semillon has taken the lead for the last few years and again plays a commanding role in 2025. It’s joined by Grenache Gris and Clairette. The Semillon—a grape grown in the Barossa Valley since the 1850s—is sourced from 90-plus-year-old, low-yielding vines in Ebenezer. The Grenache Gris is Estate fruit from Spinifex’s Dominion Vineyard, and the Clairette is from an elevated site in Rowland Flat on the valley's eastern side. The old-vine Semillon brings weight, Grenache Gris lends citrus and spice, and the late-ripening Clairette, with its excellent acid retention, provides a mouthwatering pop of freshness. As with all the Spinifex whites, this will shine at the dining table. It’s as savoury as it is primary, with fleshy, medium-weight, citrus, spice and herb notes and a delicious, juicy texture.

Lola is Spinifex at its most Mediterranean and most relaxed, a white blend built to echo the wines of southern France but grown in Barossa sunshine. The fruit comes from sandy, low fertility sites that naturally favour perfume and brightness over weight. Pete Schell, Spinifex’s founder and winemaker, has long been fascinated by Rhône and Languedoc varieties, and this wine is his playground for exploring that influence in an Australian setting. The blend of Semillon, Clairette, Ugni Blanc and Vermentino is designed around freshness, savoury detail and texture rather than overt fruit sweetness.

Viticulture focuses on moderate yields and early picking to preserve natural acidity. In the cellar, Pete Schell keeps the handling gentle and transparent. Fermentation takes place mostly in stainless steel with a portion seeing neutral vessels to build texture without oak flavour. Extended time on fine lees adds a subtle creamy layer, giving the wine shape while keeping its edges crisp. The philosophy is about energy and drinkability, capturing a sense of place without heaviness.

Pale straw in colour, the aromas are lifted and herbal, opening with lemon zest, green apple and pear layered with white flowers, fennel and a faint saline note. The palate is light to medium bodied and vibrant, with citrus and orchard fruit wrapped in bright acidity and a softly chalky texture. Flavours of lime, grapefruit and savoury herbs run long through a clean, mouthwatering finish that feels almost coastal.

It pairs beautifully with seafood, grilled vegetables, salads and Mediterranean cooking heavy on olive oil and herbs. Best enjoyed young for its snap and vitality, though it will hold for three to five years and gain gentle savoury complexity.