Shaw + Smith Sauvignon Blanc 2022

Winemaking and Drinking

Origins 

Shaw + Smith Sauvignon Blanc 2022 hails from the picturesque Adelaide Hills in South Australia, a region renowned for its cool climate and premium wine production. The winery, founded in 1989 by cousins Michael Hill Smith and Martin Shaw, has consistently produced high-quality wines that reflect their commitment to excellence and innovation.

The Adelaide Hills' unique terroir, characterized by its elevation, cooler temperatures, and diverse soil types, provides the ideal conditions for growing Sauvignon Blanc. The grapes for the 2022 vintage were meticulously sourced from selected vineyards within this region, including their flagship Balhannah Vineyard. This vineyard, located at an elevation of 420 meters, offers well-drained soils and a variety of aspects and slopes, ensuring optimal ripening conditions and flavor development.

Winemaking Process

The 2022 vintage benefited from a particularly favorable growing season, with cool, dry conditions that allowed for an extended ripening period. This resulted in grapes with excellent natural acidity and vibrant, intense flavors. The winemaking process was carefully overseen by Martin Shaw, ensuring that each step from harvest to bottling was executed with precision.

The grapes were harvested in the cool of the early morning to preserve their freshness. They were then gently pressed, and the juice was fermented at low temperatures in stainless steel tanks. This method helped to retain the pure, varietal character of the Sauvignon Blanc, resulting in a wine that is crisp, aromatic, and true to its origins.

Tasting Notes

Shaw + Smith Sauvignon Blanc 2022 is a vibrant, expressive wine with an array of enticing aromas and flavors. On the nose, it offers notes of citrus, passionfruit, and freshly cut grass, underpinned by a subtle minerality. The palate is equally impressive, with zesty lime and grapefruit flavors complemented by a refreshing acidity and a lingering, clean finish. This wine is a perfect match for seafood, salads, and light, summery dishes.

Awards and Recognition

The Shaw + Smith Sauvignon Blanc 2022 has garnered significant acclaim both domestically and internationally, reflecting its outstanding quality and the winery's reputation. Some of the notable awards include:

• Gold Medal at the Royal Adelaide Wine Show
• Best Sauvignon Blanc at the Adelaide Hills Wine Show
• 93 Points from James Halliday, one of Australia's leading wine critics
• Silver Medal at the Decanter World Wine Awards
• 90 Points from Wine Spectator, an influential international wine magazine

These accolades underscore the consistent excellence of Shaw + Smith and their dedication to producing wines that resonate with both consumers and critics alike.

Shaw + Smith Sauvignon Blanc 2022 is a shining example of the potential of the Adelaide Hills region and the skill of its winemakers. With its vibrant flavors, balanced acidity, and impressive awards, it stands as a testament to the winery's unwavering commitment to quality and innovation. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a meal, this Sauvignon Blanc is sure to delight wine enthusiasts around the world.