Origins and Winemaking Shaw + Smith Shiraz is a product of meticulous craftsmanship and a testament to the winemaking prowess of the Adelaide Hills, South Australia. Shaw + Smith, founded in 1989 by cousins Michael Hill Smith and Martin Shaw, has garnered a reputation for producing exceptional wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region. The Shiraz is no exception, offering a harmonious blend of tradition and modern viticulture practices. The Adelaide Hills, known for its cool climate, provides an ideal environment for growing Shiraz grapes. The region’s elevation, coupled with its diverse microclimates, allows for a slow ripening process, which is crucial for developing the complex flavors and aromas that distinguish Shaw + Smith Shiraz. The winemaking process for the Shiraz is characterized by minimal intervention. The grapes are handpicked, ensuring only the finest fruit is used. Fermentation takes place in small batches with a combination of whole berries and whole bunches, enhancing the wine’s texture and aromatic profile. After fermentation, the wine is aged in French oak barrels for 14 months, adding depth and complexity to the final product. Awards and Recognition The Shaw + Smith Shiraz has garnered significant acclaim both domestically and internationally. Some notable awards and accolades include: James Halliday's Wine Companion: Rated 96 points, highlighting its elegance, balance, and longevity. Decanter World Wine Awards: Awarded a Gold Medal, praised for its expressive fruit profile and refined tannins. International Wine Challenge: Received a Trophy for Best Australian Shiraz, recognized for its outstanding quality and craftsmanship. These awards are a testament to the exceptional quality of the Shaw + Smith Shiraz, making it a standout wine in a competitive market. Vineyard Sourcing The grapes for the Shaw + Smith Shiraz are sourced from two primary vineyards in the Adelaide Hills: the Balhannah Vineyard and the Lenswood Vineyard. Balhannah Vineyard: Located at an altitude of 380 meters, this vineyard benefits from cool nights and warm days, which help to develop the aromatic intensity and vibrant acidity of the Shiraz grapes. Lenswood Vineyard: Situated at a higher altitude of 500 meters, the cooler conditions here contribute to the wine’s structure and finesse. The diverse soil types, ranging from sandy loam to clay, add complexity to the wine’s flavor profile. Shaw + Smith Shiraz is a shining example of what can be achieved when traditional winemaking techniques are combined with a deep understanding of terroir. The wine’s origin in the cool climate Adelaide Hills, coupled with meticulous vineyard management and winemaking practices, results in a Shiraz that is both elegant and powerful. Its numerous awards and accolades further cement its status as a world class wine, appealing to connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.
