At a glance

Producer

Shaw + Smith

Region

Adelaide Hills, South Australia, Australia

Grape variety

Shiraz

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$35-45 USD

Tasting profile

Layered aromas of blackberry, plum, blueberry, with hints of pepper, graphite, and subtle oak. Palate is intense yet poised, firm but polished tannins, lively acidity, generous black fruit, spice and earth, well-integrated oak influence.

Evolution: Will gain further savory, gamey notes and supple texture with age; fruit will shift towards dried blackberry and black cherry, earthy and smoky undertones may intensify.

At peak: Peak period sees harmony of ripe fruit, savory spice, resolved tannins, and subtle tertiary development.

Structure

Acidity

Fresh, balancing the fruit depth

Tannins

Fine-grained, moderate to firm

Alcohol

Approximately 14% ABV

Aging potential

8-12 years from vintage; top vintages and well-stored bottles could push to 2033

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2024 to 2044

Optimal window

2022 to 2047

Current status

Approachable now, but can age further

Current condition

Youthful but integrating, beginning to show secondary complexity

Shaw + Smith's Adelaide Hills Shiraz is known for structure and finesse, benefiting from Adelaide Hills' cool climate. 2019 is a strong vintage, and with top winemaking, this Shiraz offers at least 8-12 years of graceful evolution, developing complexity without losing freshness. Window reflects both producer reputation and regional style.

Food pairing

Grilled lamb, beef short ribs, venison, mushroom risotto, eggplant parmigiana, and hard mature cheeses (like aged Cheddar or Manchego). Middle Eastern lamb stew is a standout match.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1 hour) — To allow integration of youthful tannins and release primary and secondary aromatics.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Extensive vineyard health programs, minimal intervention philosophy, native vegetation conservation, rainwater harvesting, solar power investment, integrated pest management, lightweight bottles, recycled cardboard packaging.

Shaw + Smith is a leader in sustainability in the Adelaide Hills, emphasizing vineyard biodiversity and water/energy efficiency. Commitment to Sustainable Australia Winegrowing requirements, renewable energy, and responsible packaging all contribute to an advanced sustainability profile in the region. Not organic/biodynamic, but substantial progress and transparency on emissions and resource use. Export footprint is carefully managed but unavoidably raises carbon intensity for international buyers.