Shaw + Smith

Founded in 1989 by cousins Michael Hill-Smith MW and Martin Shaw, Shaw + Smith is an iconic wine estate located in the cool region of Adelaide Hills, Australia. Their shared vision was to produce refined wines that capture the essence of their unique terroir.


The vineyards


Shaw + Smith owns several strategically located vineyards to take advantage of Adelaide Hills' varied microclimates. The Balhannah vineyard, which surrounds the winery, is planted primarily with Sauvignon Blanc and Shiraz, at an altitude of 340 to 380 meters. The soils consist of well-drained sandy loam over red clay, with quartzite and schist in the subsoil.


The Lenswood vineyard, located about 10 km northwest of the winery, is planted primarily with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, at an altitude of 455 to 500 meters. The soils are brown loams over clay with fractured schist on the ridges.


The wines


Shaw + Smith focuses on grape varieties suited to Adelaide Hills' cool climate, particularly Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Shiraz.
The Sauvignon Blanc from Shaw + Smith is renowned for its vibrant pink grapefruit aromas, concentration, and mid-palate texture, reflecting carefully selected sites and hand-picking at optimal ripeness.
The M3 Chardonnay comes from the Lenswood vineyard, offering complex notes of citrus and stone fruit, supported by subtle minerality and a long finish. Fermentation in French oak barrels adds an extra dimension to this elegant wine.
The Pinot Noir from Shaw + Smith presents aromas of black cherry and raspberry, with fine tannins and balanced acidity. The high-altitude vineyards contribute to the freshness and complexity of this delicate wine.
The Shiraz is characterized by black fruit flavors, subtle spices, and a silky texture. Maturation in French oak barrels refines the tannins and brings additional depth.


Commitment to quality


Shaw + Smith is committed to producing exciting and refined wines exclusively from Adelaide Hills, aiming to be among Australia's finest. Their philosophy is based on growing exceptional grapes, collaborating with the best viticulturists, and minimal intervention in the winery to create wines with a strong sense of place.


Shaw + Smith embodies the elegance and finesse of wines from Adelaide Hills' cool climate. Through meticulous attention to detail, from vine to bottle, the estate continues to produce wines that appeal to enthusiasts worldwide while remaining true to their original vision of capturing the essence of their unique terroir.