Description
Shaw & Smith’s first vintage was in 1990, and have over 30 years of winemaking experience in the Adelaide Hills. Founded by cousins Michael Hill-Smith MW and Martin Shaw who are now supported by a formidable team of wine professionals. Making modern expressions of cool-climate wines that reflect site and climate. Own and farm vineyards in Lenswood, Balhannah, Piccadilly and most recently Lobethal. Committed to growing the best grapes possible and managing the vineyards in a sustainable fashion with an uncompromising pursuit of quality – all wines are fermented, aged and bottled onsite at Balhannah.
Adelaide Hills is considered the best place for Sauvignon Blanc in Australia and Shaw & Smith are widely regarded as the benchmark for this variety in the country. 2025 is the 36th vintage that Shaw + Smith has made.
About this wine from the winemakers: “From our estate vineyards at Balhannah and Lenswood, grown on loams over clay with ironstone and quartzite. These vineyards are certified organic, and we work closely with our growers to help them grow great grapes sustainably.
“A wetter than average spring delayed flowering, setting the season on a later course. Milder summer conditions encouraged healthy vine growth, even bunch development and low disease pressure. Cool conditions allowed for slow, measured ripening, resulting in pristine fruit with impressive balance, freshness and natural acidity.
“Carefully pressed grapes were fermented at cool temperatures, and protected from oxygen throughout. Some time in tank on yeast lees followed, helping to build palate texture and complexity.
“The cool, late season allowed for a long, leisurely hang time, resulting in concentrated flavours of pink grapefruit, citrus zest and orchard fruits. The palate is full flavoured, yet resolved. Balanced by refreshing acidity and a clean, crisp finish.”
2026 is the 37th vintage that Shaw + Smith has made. It has become known as a benchmark for Adelaide Hills, and Australian, Sauvignon Blanc.
91 points, Campbell Mattinson, The Wine Front “This is a particularly apple-driven release with lime, lemongrass, steel and gooseberry notes washing throughout. It’s aromatic, it’s fresh, it’s racy and it has enough intensity to the flavour to keep everyone happy. It also feels dry. Acidity is a little dangly/jangly but then, it’s early July 2026 and the grapes were only picked a few months ago.” Tasted 2 July 2026.
RRP $39 Our Special Price $29.99 when you buy 6 or more of this wine
