2025 Spinifex Papillon Grenache Cinsault, Barossa Valley

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.

Papillon is crafted from a range of old vine, dry grown Grenache (75%) and Cinsault (25%) vineyards, located in the east and far northern reaches of the Barossa Valley. The average age of these low yielding vines today sits at 90 years old! Each vineyard was hand harvested when just ripe to, in Schell’s words, "...ensure natural acids, freshness, spice and the fresher, edgier tannins were preserved."

It's a wine that would make a top southern Rhône producer proud. It sports a deliciously crunchy texture, cleansing acidity, savoury grip, and is somehow perfectly integrated with the wine’s generous fruit. As always, the wine was naturally fermented with a portion of whole bunches and pulled out of large format old wood after six months. The two previous vintages of Papillon have featured in The Wine Companion’s annual list of Top 100 wines; the 2025 is a surefire bet to make it three in a row.

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.