Wines Adelaide Hills Shaw Smith - Shiraz - 2022

Shaw + Smith’s 2022 Shiraz from the Adelaide Hills is a textbook example of cool-climate Australian Shiraz. Harvested from estate-owned vineyards, this wine showcases the delicacy and freshness the region is renowned for. The 2022 vintage, marked by a relatively mild growing season, allowed for an extended ripening period. This has resulted in a wine with aromatic lift, precise fruit expression, and integrated tannins. The vinification includes gentle extraction methods, as well as partial ageing in French oak, imparting subtle spice and structure but without overwhelming the pure fruit profile. Bright crimson in colour, expect aromas of blackberry, red plum, cracked pepper and a touch of violet, backed by freshness and finesse on the palate.

The Adelaide Hills region, positioned east of Adelaide in South Australia, benefits from higher elevations and a distinctly cooler climate compared to much of the country’s wine heartland. The soils here are diverse, with sandy loams over clay and pockets of shale, providing excellent drainage and complexity. Historically, the area was established in the 19th century but only rose to prominence in the past few decades, especially for premium Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and elegant Shiraz. The cooler climate helps retain acidity, leading to a style of Shiraz that is more perfumed and elegant than the more robust versions seen in Barossa or McLaren Vale.

To complement this style of Shiraz, a grilled rack of lamb with rosemary would be an outstanding match, as would slow-roasted duck or braised venison. Mushroom risotto or aubergine parmigiana make excellent vegetarian options, drawing out the wine’s peppery and savoury notes. For a regional twist, pair with Aussie kangaroo fillet or a peppered beef pie.

Serve slightly cool, between 16 and 18°C, to highlight the vibrancy and freshness. Decanting for an hour is recommended, particularly if enjoying young, to allow the bouquet to fully develop. This 2022 Adelaide Hills Shiraz is approachable in youth but will evolve gracefully over the next five to eight years.