The best yet: Shaw + Smith Shiraz 2012

January 22, 2014

Shaw + Smith Shiraz 2012 (Adelaide Hills, SA)
13.5%, Screwcap, $44
Source: Sample
www.shawandsmith.com

Another supreme release of Shaw + Smith Shiraz, and perhaps the finest yet.

It’s been a finessing process to get to this high level really, taking place over the past decade. The fruit sourcing, for starters, has evolved over the years, with the blend now including more Macclesfield (warmer, drier part of the Adelaide Hills) fruit for example. Viognier has been phased out too (this is 100% Shiraz I believe) and more whole bunches used in the ferment.

It’s certainly dark coloured this year – very bright and full purple/red. Quite luscious nose of plum fruit too but with the distinctive white pepper and spice coolness. The palate feels carefully restrained too – plenty of purple juiciness but just before it starts to get large on you the finish feels cool and fine. Obviously a warm year vintage wine, the style still rich and full through the middle, even if it finishes cool and spicy.

There is something quite Grampians-esque about the profile this year actually, but with more acidity and spice, making something rather delicious.

As for criticisms, I think I’d like a little more tannin to finish off the roundness, but otherwise genuinely hard to fault.

Impressive juice. Well priced too.

Drink: 2014-2019+
Score: 18.5/20, 94/100
Would I buy it? Yes.

2012, Adelaide Hills, Shiraz, Top Wine

Andrew Graham was once voted the 23rd most trusted wine critic on the planet. A WCA Journalism Young Gun now old hack with 25yrs as a buyer, judge, journalist, marketer and too much more.

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2 responses to “The best yet: Shaw + Smith Shiraz 2012”

Anonymous

January 22, 2014 at 10:25 pm

I've never really loved this wine, though have enjoyed a few bottles well enough over the years, and have never cellared any. Could this be the one?

MC

Reply
1. ozwinereview
  
  January 22, 2014 at 10:37 pm
  
  Could be MC. Certainly the most stylish iteration yet
  
  Reply