Since their first vintage in 1989, Shaw + Smith has grown into one of Australia’s most respected wineries. Their investment in a state-of-the-art winery and tasting room, completed in 2000, has allowed them to continue raising the bar in quality and innovation. With a commitment to sustainability, Shaw + Smith takes a biological approach to farming that emphasizes vine and soil health while maintaining low yields. They’re currently exploring new technologies for water and energy conservation, and adopting a closed loop approach to packaging recycling.
As for the 2024 vintage, during flowering the Adelaide Hills had very cool and wet weather which interrupted fruit set. For early budding varieties, like Sauvignon Blanc, this meant that bunches were smaller and lighter, resulting in a lower yield. The remainder of the season was mostly mild and dry, with a few well-timed rain events that supported vine growth and health. Once inside the winery, the grapes were carefully pressed before being fermented at cool temperatures. That tight temperature control was part of the larger strategy of Shaw + Smith’s reductive winemaking, limiting the grapes from as much oxygen exposure as possible. This winemaking style leads to fresh, bright aromatics, typically with citrus and floral notes. To add palate texture and complexity, the wine spent some time on its lees in tank.
Tasting Note
Shaw + Smith’s 2024 Sauvignon Blanc is bright and expressive. Notes of lime, florals and a touch of nettle slip into a slightly mineral and piquant finish reminiscent of a salsa verde with chile and cilantro. Despite being crisp there’s a lovely creamy mouthfeel from the less aging. This is a Sauvignon Blanc whose complexity keeps bringing you back.
Food Pairing
Lean into Shaw + Smith’s 2024 energetic and precise Sauvignon Blanc with oysters or simple seafood that has some lemon and olive oil. Herb-driven spring vegetable sides will also be a natural match to complement this Sauvignon Blanc’s grassy, minerally and lime-streaked palate.