2022 Spinifex La Maline

Peter Schell is regarded as one of the most influential winemakers in the recent renaissance of the Barossa Valley. Pete paved the way for a new breed of Barossa winemakers with stunning wines like this: his flagship wine, La Maline.

Made in only tiny quantities, La Maline is a more elegant side of Barossa Shiraz. Peter Schell does a barrel selection for this wine, from two parcels in the High-Eden subregion of the Eden Valley. With the deft touch we have come to expect from this producer, the fruit undergoes a wild ferment in large format oak (about 40% new) and sees a healthy dose of whole bunches and a small amount of Viognier for aromatic lift.

It is a pleasure to drink this wine. Finesse and intricacy combine effortlessly with the brooding power of the region. All in all, a beautiful wine.

96 points
"A blend of two shiraz vineyards: the old Materne vineyard in Moppa (1920s) and the Rostein vineyard in High Eden (1950s). As close to a Barossan Hermitage as you're likely to get. Deep, dark and black plum and berry fruits, leather, dark chocolate, roasting meats and crushed granite, flecked with herbs. It feels stony and deeply resonant on the palate. Tannins fall chalky and toothsome, laying out in a sedimentary fashion below the fruit, which shows great depth and length of flavour. Finishes long and satisfying."
- Dave Brookes (Halliday Wine Companion)