Spinifex Syrah 2018 Barossa Valley, South Australia, Australia 75cl

Spinifex is a Barossa Valley producer founded in 2001 by Peter Schell and Magali Gely, a couple drawn to Mediterranean varieties and to a lighter, more textural reading of this famous region. Their wines aim for elegance, perfume and freshness rather than the blockbuster weight the Barossa is often known for, and they have built a strong following among drinkers who want finesse from a warm-climate red.

This is pure Syrah, and the choice of name over Shiraz is deliberate: the label leans to the perfumed, higher-toned, more linear side of the grape rather than its dense, jammy end. Fruit is drawn from generally higher, cooler sites within the region for brightness and textural freshness, then handled gently to keep that lift and fragrance intact.

The 2018 vintage in the Barossa was warm and well regarded, ripening the fruit fully while the cooler sourcing keeps this wine poised and aromatic rather than heavy or over-ripe.

Expect aromas of dark berry fruit, violets and savoury spice, a medium-bodied palate carrying red and black fruit, a peppery, savoury thread and fine, well-judged tannins, all closing on a fresh, lingering finish. It suits roast lamb, charcuterie, duck or a mushroom risotto, food that meets its perfume without swamping it.

If you love Syrah but find some Barossa reds too big and sweet, Spinifex offers a more restrained, Rhone-leaning style with genuine finesse. It drinks well now, with the fruit open and the tannins fine, and it has the balance and structure to reward a few years in the cellar for those who prefer to wait.