This is a beautiful release of Shaw + Smith Shiraz. A forest of berries, a walk through flowers, peppers flung through and rubs of woodsy spice; the combination of fruitiness, savouriness, seriousness and fun is a highway to pleasure, built on wine. For all that the tannin is another dimension in itself; fine, lacy, assertive and and savoury at once, complete with its own twiggy spice notes.

No preamble needed – this Shaw + Smith Shiraz 2021 is excellent. It’s so drinkable. The ripeness really is perfect – this is so moderate and delightful despite the volume of polished fruit. But, ultimately, it’s just a really enjoyable, full flavoured, gently spicy, polished, generous, round yet not fat, technically perfect modern Australian Shiraz.

Shows why shiraz has been such a hit in the relatively cool climes of the Adelaide Hills. Has a seductive alluring aroma of dark cherry and rhubarb with a sprinkle of age. The palate is medium bodied but immensely flavoursome. The chalky tannin support is important while the oak has been expertly infused. Lovely the dry and balanced mouth feel. Love this.

Very deep and bright red-purple with impressive saturation, while the bouquet is fresh and brightly youthful dark fruits and spices, black cherry through to dark plum, with a hint of earthy ironstone and graphite—almost a pepperiness. The tannins are ample and supple, adding texture and gravitas as well as a trace of agreeable bitterness which either food or bottle-age will mellow out.

A wine that can be counted upon to provide the elegance of cool climate fruit with plenty of structure and drinking appeal. It’s full of wild purple florals, fat juicy mulberries (the ones at the top of the tree, just out of reach), blueberries and dark chocolate shavings. Hints of vanilla pod and cardamom comes through and soft svelte tannins to finish.