Shaw and Smith Balhannah Shiraz 2020

Region and Vineyards

The Balhannah Vineyard, located at 380 meters altitude in the Adelaide Hills, provides a prime setting for cool-climate Shiraz. Established in 2005, this north-facing vineyard sits on complex soils of loam over red clay, ironstone, quartzite, and shale, which impart structure and minerality to the wine. The 2020 vintage brought several challenges, but ideal ripening conditions in February allowed for even, balanced fruit development, resulting in small berries with high flavor concentration and natural acidity.

With a planting density of 5,500 vines per hectare and the Savii17 clone selected for its suitability to this unique terroir, the vineyard yields Shiraz with remarkable aromatic complexity and intensity. The combination of high elevation, well-draining soils, and meticulous vineyard management ensures a Shiraz that reflects the depth and elegance of the Balhannah Vineyard.

Winemaking

Shaw + Smith’s winemaking approach for the 2020 Balhannah Vineyard Shiraz emphasizes minimal intervention to showcase the vineyard’s character. The wine is aged in 500 to 600-liter French oak puncheons (20% new) for 14 months, enhancing texture without overwhelming the fruit’s freshness. Following barrel aging, the wine undergoes an additional 14 months of bottle aging, further integrating flavors and allowing the wine’s structure to develop.

The wine’s complexity is enhanced by whole-bunch fermentation, which adds layers of spice and herbal notes, as well as balanced tannins. This approach yields a Shiraz with vibrant acidity, a long finish, and a refined texture, embodying the best qualities of cool-climate Shiraz.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep ruby with a purple hue.
• Aroma: Intricate aromas of spiced plum, fennel seed, and dried sage, with hints of red berries and earthiness.
• Palate: Medium-bodied with fresh acidity and structured tannins, flavors of red fruit and spiced plum are complemented by a subtle herbal undertone. The finish is long and balanced, with a delicate minerality and fine tannins that promise longevity.

Did you know?

The Balhannah Vineyard Shiraz is a unique expression of Adelaide Hills Shiraz, emphasizing cool-climate characteristics. Shaw + Smith has tailored every aspect of the vineyard to highlight these qualities, from choosing the Savii17 clone to managing yields, making this wine a standout among Australian single-site Shiraz.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Braised lamb shanks with rosemary and garlic: The wine’s tannins and herbal notes complement the richness of the lamb, while its acidity balances the dish’s savory flavors.
• Beef tagine with prunes and spices: The wine’s spiced plum and fennel seed notes echo the tagine’s flavors, creating a harmonious pairing.
• Grilled portobello mushrooms with thyme: The earthy, herbal profile of the Shiraz pairs beautifully with the umami depth of the mushrooms.
• Charcuterie board with aged cheeses and cured meats: The wine’s acidity and structure balance the richness of cheeses, and its complexity pairs well with the flavors of cured meats.

History of Shaw + Smith Estate

Shaw + Smith was established in 1989 by Martin Shaw, a skilled winemaker, and Michael Hill Smith MW, the first Australian to earn the prestigious Master of Wine title. Driven by a shared vision to produce high-quality, cool-climate wines that highlight the potential of the Adelaide Hills, the cousins invested in carefully selected vineyard sites that offer unique conditions ideal for premium varietals. Their philosophy emphasizes minimal intervention, focusing on sustainable practices that allow the distinct character of each vineyard to come through in every bottle.

Over the years, Shaw + Smith has garnered a reputation for excellence, especially with its Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Shiraz. The estate has continually evolved, with Martin Shaw and Michael Hill Smith overseeing a dedicated team led by winemaker Adam Wadewitz. Their shared commitment to quality has earned Shaw + Smith numerous accolades, cementing its status as one of Australia’s leading cool-climate wine producers.

Region and Vineyards

Shaw + Smith owns and operates three vineyards in the Adelaide Hills: Balhannah, Lenswood, and Piccadilly. Located at elevations between 380 and 500 meters, these sites benefit from a cool climate, which promotes vibrant acidity and complex flavors in the wines. Each vineyard is planted with varieties specifically suited to the site, chosen to express the region’s full potential.

The Balhannah Vineyard was the estate’s first vineyard, acquired in 1999 and located at 380 meters altitude on north-facing slopes with loam over red clay and ironstone soils. This site is planted with Shiraz, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay, yielding wines of aromatic complexity and structured tannins. Lenswood Vineyard, acquired in 2012, sits at a higher altitude of 500 meters and is planted primarily with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Its east-facing slopes, cooler conditions, and shale-rich soils contribute to the finesse and freshness of its wines. The vineyards are sustainably farmed, emphasizing practices that support soil health and vine longevity.

Wine Range

Shaw + Smith is best known for producing cool-climate wines that capture the Adelaide Hills’ elegance and distinctiveness. Their portfolio includes:

• Sauvignon Blanc: Known for its fresh acidity, bright citrus notes, and mineral complexity, this wine has become a flagship for the estate.
• M3 Chardonnay: Crafted in a restrained style, Shaw + Smith’s Chardonnay balances stone fruit flavors with vibrant acidity and subtle oak integration, making it a benchmark for Australian Chardonnay.
• Pinot Noir: Shaw + Smith’s Pinot Noir showcases a delicate structure with flavors of red berries, subtle spice, and a fine tannin profile, representing the finesse of the Lenswood vineyard.
• Shiraz: The estate’s Shiraz expresses the aromatic complexity of Adelaide Hills’ cool climate, with a focus on freshness, refined tannins, and balanced spice, particularly evident in the single-vineyard Balhannah Shiraz.

Did you know?

Shaw + Smith was not only groundbreaking for its focus on cool-climate Adelaide Hills wines, but it also became a pioneer in sustainable viticulture practices within the region. The estate uses minimal intervention in both the vineyard and winery, with a commitment to sustainable practices that support the health of the land and the authenticity of its wines.