2025 Spinifex Lola

Pete Schell is mostly famous for making some of the best reds in the Barossa, but his whites are just as smart and definitely deserve more of a look in. Lola is the original white blend in the Spinifex lineup, and the 2025 is a cracker.

The heavy lifting is done by Semillon from gnarly 90-year-old vines in Ebenezer, which gives the wine some serious bones. Pete mixes in a bit of Grenache Gris and Clairette for spice and textural crunch. He’s particularly happy with how the Semillon component came out this year - it has this lovely weight and waxy feel that really anchors the whole thing.

It’s a savoury, medium-weight white that’s more about texture and complexity than just simple fruit. You get plenty of citrus and a bit of a herbal, spicy kick that makes it perfect for food. It’s got a fleshy, juicy vibe that’s just plain delicious.

This is a white for people who want something with a bit of personality. It’s distinctive, incredibly well-made, and arguably some of the best value you’ll find in the region.