Shaw + Smith, Adelaide Hills, Australia.
Shaw + Smith was established in 1989 by cousins Michael Hill Smith MW and Martin Shaw. Fortunately Michael is studying French with Bruno, who is also my Parisian prof.
The French language is of course a key element of international wine culture.
Michael, who I had never met before, received me with great warmth and generosity. He facilitated my discovery of their Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Shiraz.
Personal preferences play a big role in wine tasting. For me, the Riesling and Pinot Noir were the standout wines.
Meeting Michael, and learning of the journey of Shaw + Smith vineyard was an immense privilege. Michael was the first Australian to pass the rigorous Master of Wine examination in 1988. He is also an international wine judge, wine consultant and strong advocate for Australian fine wine both within Australia and internationally.
Shaw + Smith has made enormous strides in its relatively short history. Its first vintage was in 1990 and in 1999 they purchased a property at Balhannah, where they planted vines, and built the winery and tasting room in time for the 2000 vintage. Shaw + Smith own two vineyards in the Adelaide Hills, at Balhannah and Lenswood, totalling 55 hectares.
Shaw + Smith is emblematic of the Adelaide Hills wine story. Although grapes were planted as early as 1839, it was not until 1979 that viticulture was revived in the Adelaide Hills.
Over the last three decades the Adelaide Hills has built a reputation as one of Australia’s most exciting regions. Located in the Mt Lofty Ranges thirty minutes drive from Adelaide, the elevation varies from around 350 metres, to over 710 metres at Mt Lofty. The Adelaide Hills is bordered to the North by the Barossa and Eden Valleys and McLaren Vale to the South, but due to its altitude, the Adelaide Hills is significantly cooler and wetter.
Cher Michael, un grand merci et à votre santé!