Shaw and Smith Sauvignon Blanc Adelaide Hills – 2026

This wine is one of Australia’s benchmark Sauvignon Blancs, and has been in each of the 37 vintages of its existence.

Style: 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.

The 2026 growing season: 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.

The grapes come from the winery’s estate-owned vineyards at
Balhannah and Lenswood, grown on loams over clay with  ironstone and quartzite. These vineyards are certified organic.

Vinification: 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. 12% alc.

“Pale colour in the glass; fresh, bright kiwifruit and yeasty aromas, hints of passionfruit and guava; the palate is light and fresh, crisp and quite intense, with ripe sauvignon aromas and flavours—no greener notes. It’s light and soft textured, balanced and easy to enjoy right away.” 93/100 The Real Review