2018 Shaw + Smith Pinot Noir Adelaide Hills

Winemaker Notes: Delicate, fragrant, light to medium bodied but with deceptive power, silky tannins and medium term ageing potential. The 2018 vintage has a concentrated core of red berry fruits including raspberries and cherries. It is vibrant and more opulent than other years. Enjoy in a large red wine glass, with some charcuterie.

The Shaw + Smith winery was built in 2000, giving us the ability to whole-bunch press cold grapes, and allowing the evolution of style reflected in the first M3 Chardonnay from that 2000 vintage. The most significant event since then came in 2012 with the purchase of the Lenswood vineyard. Chardonnay was originally planted in Lenswood for sparkling wine production but as site knowledge has evolved, it now fulfils its potential for fine still wine, with finesse, flavor, and great natural acidity. Hand picked and whole bunch pressed. Fermented and matured on lees in French oak barriques and puncheons. 

CRITICAL ACCLAIM


Wine Enthusiast - "This vintage reveals a heady combo of wild blueberry, current, flowers, anise, nutmeg and woodsy, forest floor aromas. The palate is quietly powerful, the silky fruit and lifted acidity wound in savory, highly textural tannins and a lingering finish. This is a finessed, multifaceted bottling that could cellar a decade."

James Suckling - "The dried-strawberry and orange-peel character here is so enticing and energetic with hints of walnuts and dried flowers. Medium body, light and fine tannins and a crisp finish. Drink now or hold.”