The 2023 Shaw + Smith Shiraz is a refined and cool-climate expression of Australian Shiraz from the Adelaide Hills, showcasing elegance, spice, and vibrant structure. Produced by Shaw + Smith, this wine reflects the estate’s modern philosophy of restraint, purity, and site expression rather than overt power. Fruit is sourced primarily from the Balhannah and Lenswood vineyards in the Adelaide Hills, where elevation and cooler temperatures allow for slow ripening and exceptional flavour definition. The 2023 vintage delivered fruit with excellent natural acidity and aromatic clarity, resulting in a Shiraz of freshness, finesse, and balance. In the winery, fruit was hand-harvested and fermented in small batches with gentle extraction to preserve perfume and texture. Maturation in French oak barrels, including a modest proportion of new oak, added complexity and savoury depth while maintaining the wine’s bright fruit profile and structural precision. The wine opens with expressive aromas of blackberry, dark cherry, and blueberry, layered with notes of white pepper, dried herbs, olive tapenade, and subtle spice. The palate is medium-bodied and finely structured, balancing vibrant dark fruit with silky tannins and energetic acidity. A long, savoury finish highlights the cool-climate character and understated elegance of the wine. Approachable now with light decanting, the 2023 Shaw + Smith Shiraz will continue to evolve gracefully over the next 8–15+ years, developing additional savoury and tertiary complexity. A benchmark Adelaide Hills Shiraz that combines Rhône-inspired finesse with Australian fruit purity and precision.
