The Vino Journals

In the sun-drenched soils of McLaren Vale and the cool, rolling hills of Gumeracha, Mediterranean grapes have found new ground - and a new voice.

This edition of our Winemaker Focus turns to Stephen Pannell - one of Australia’s most thoughtful, forward-facing producers. Under his two labels, S.C. Pannell and prōterō, he explores what happens when Mediterranean varieties meet South Australian terroir.

At S.C. Pannell, McLaren Vale’s coastal warmth and ancient geology echo the landscapes of the southern Mediterranean coast. Fiano, Nero d’Avola, Grenache - these aren’t just suited to the region, they thrive in it. The result is wines with balance, texture, and real Mediterranean soul - made not to imitate, but to respond - to their climate, their site and their table.

Further inland, at prōterō, the conversation shifts to elevation. Gumeracha’s cool days and long ripening season draw comparisons to the hills of Piemonte. Here, Nebbiolo takes centre stage. Five clones, planted in 1999, now yield wines of fine-boned structure and quiet power - a study in tannin, restraint, and site expression.

These are wines shaped by sun and soil, but also by philosophy. They ask questions. They evolve in the glass. And like their Mediterranean cousins, they shine brightest alongside food, friends, and slow afternoons.

Available by the glass, 375ml or bottle. Salute!

As the Giro winds on, we find ourselves chasing not just regions, but colour. Rosato the hue of dusky summer skies. Whites with volcanic minerality. Reds that speak of altitude, heritage, and time. And a little fizz, perché no?

This next chapter brings together winemakers who colour outside the lines - from the saline pink of Occhio di Sale to the lifted sparkle of Croci’s Campedello.

There’s texture, tension, and a little chaos (the good kind). Wines made slowly, with purpose. Wines that taste like where they’re from.

Pour by pour, we keep riding.

Available by the glass, 375ml or bottle - salute.

The Giro d’Italia first hit the road in 1909, taking inspiration from the Tour de France, which had been spinning since 1903. You could say the French wore the “maglia rosa” on that one… but let’s not forget - in vino veritas! When it comes to wine, Italy has long been ahead of the pack, with winemaking traditions dating all the way back to the 7th century BC.

Now, we invite you to explore the regional brilliance of Italian wines, a showcase of varieties that embody the country’s deep love for place, tradition, and flavour.

So, hop on your Bianchi, grab a glass, and let’s take a flavoursome ride through Italy’s winemaking heritage - one sip at a time.

Salute!