Shaw + Smith Pinot Noir 2023

Shaw + Smith Pinot Noir 2023 is a distinguished red wine from the Adelaide Hills region in South Australia, produced by the renowned Shaw + Smith winery. Established in 1989 by cousins Michael Hill Smith MW and Martin Shaw, the winery has become synonymous with excellence in cool-climate varietals, particularly Pinot Noir.

The 2023 vintage was characterized by a late, cool, and wet season, resulting in the latest harvest the winery has experienced. These conditions contributed to excellent acidity and the development of lovely cool-season flavours.

Appearance: Vibrant ruby red with a slight crimson hue, bright and clear in the glass. The wine has a delicate viscosity, forming slow-moving legs that hint at its fine structure and balanced alcohol.

Aroma: Expressive and detailed, with notes of dark cherry, wild strawberry, and crushed raspberry. Hints of dried rose petals, subtle spice, and earthy undergrowth add complexity, while a touch of oak imparts a faint vanilla and cedar nuance.

Taste: Lively palate, fresh and edgy with elegant concentration and sweet persistence. The bright red cherry and raspberry flavours are layered with hints of cranberry, dried herbs, and subtle earthy tones. Silky tannins provide structure, while delicate oak influence adds a touch of cinnamon and clove. The balanced acidity lifts the fruit, creating vibrancy and finesse.

Finish: Long and satisfying, with lingering red fruit and subtle spice notes. The freshness carries through to the finish, with a fine mineral edge and a hint of savoury complexity that will develop further with time.

Food Pairing: This Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with duck, lamb, and mushroom-based dishes, where its vibrant acidity and refined structure complement the richness of these foods.