2025 Spinifex Papillon Grenache Cinsault, Barossa Valley

I just love this wine. The word 'smashable' shines with overuse, but the Papillon consistently offers such an ease of drinking that it is just a no-brainer every year. Spacious, airy and mid-weighted, this year sees a blend of grenache 75% and cinsault 25%, and it's a raspberry and citrus blossom-flecked beauty with hints of exotic spice, tendrils of twiggy nuance (hello, 100% whole clusters), cranberry, charcuterie, dried citrus rinds and distant flowering herbs. A brisk mineral cadence and a sweetly balanced, chalky tannin array. It is just bright, joyous drinking. Bonkers value here, too.

95 points Special Value Dave Brookes for Halliday Wine Companion

Pete Schell's Papillon was one of the first of the mod-Barossa wines to show that ripeness and depth of flavour needn’t come at the expense of freshness and vineyard clarity. All these years later it remains at the very top of its game. If anything, it has never been in better form.

From the Barossa Valley comes Papillon, a beautifully expressive blend that reflects the thoughtful and vineyard focused philosophy of Spinifex Wines. The winery was established by winemaker Pete Schell and his wife Magali Gely, whose approach centres on sourcing fruit from old vineyards across the Barossa and surrounding regions. Spinifex has gained a strong following for wines that combine the warmth and generosity of the Barossa with a lighter touch in the cellar. Papillon brings together Grenache and Cinsault from mature vineyards planted in sandy soils, a combination that produces wines of perfume, freshness and gentle structure.

The wine shows a vibrant ruby colour with bright clarity. Aromas open with wild strawberry, raspberry and red cherry layered with rose petal, subtle spice and delicate herbal notes. As the wine develops in the glass hints of white pepper and dried herbs begin to emerge, adding complexity. The palate is supple and lively with fine tannins carrying flavours of red berries, pomegranate and gentle spice across a graceful frame. Grenache contributes brightness and generous fruit while Cinsault adds fragrance and softness, creating a beautifully balanced and highly drinkable wine. The finish is fresh and lingering with a savoury edge that invites another sip.

This is a vibrant and versatile Barossa red that works wonderfully with grilled lamb, charcuterie, roast chicken or rustic Mediterranean style cooking.