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The History of Shaw & Smith
Shaw & Smith, established in 1989 by cousins Michael Hill Smith MW and Martin Shaw, is a renowned Australian winery that holds great significance in the world of wine. Focusing exclusively on the Adelaide Hills region, they craft exceptional wines from varieties that thrive in the cooler climate. These include Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Shiraz. The winery proudly owns two vineyards in Lenswood and Balhannah, with the latter being home to the winery and the open daily Tasting Room.
A Commitment to Quality and Sustainability
Shaw & Smith's approach revolves around cultivating the finest grapes, employing sustainable vineyard management practices, and prioritizing vine and soil health, as well as low yields. This commitment to excellence is reflected in their meticulous process of fermenting, aging, and bottling the wines onsite at their Balhannah winery. The result is a collection of vibrant, medium-bodied wines that beautifully showcase the unique characteristics of their respective varieties and the region they originate from.
Growth and Evolution
Since their first vintage in 1990, Shaw & Smith has come a long way. Initially producing their wines at Wirra Wirra and Petaluma, the winery later acquired a property in Balhannah in 1999. They planted vines and constructed the winery and tasting room in time for the 2000 vintage. In 2012, they expanded further by purchasing an established 20-hectare vineyard in Lenswood. With the business flourishing, Michael and Martin have assembled an impressive team to continue the legacy of Shaw & Smith. Notable members include Master of Wine David LeMire, Senior Winemaker Adam Wadewitz, Business Manager Grant Lovelock, and Group Viticulturist Murray Leake.
Commitment to Sustainability
Shaw & Smith is proud to be a member of Sustainable Winegrowing Australia, demonstrating their dedication to the best possible soil and vine health across all their vineyards. Whether it is the vineyards in Lenswood and Balhannah or the newly planned vineyard in Piccadilly, set to be planted in Spring 2020, the winery takes a holistic approach. They have long embraced sustainable and environmentally sensitive practices, such as organic farming of individual blocks, utilizing sheep for weed control, promoting beneficial insects in the vineyard, and employing seaweed fertilizers. Furthermore, Shaw & Smith has completely eliminated the use of herbicides, synthetic fertilizers, and fungicides, further enhancing their commitment to sustainability.
Transition to Organic Certification
As a natural progression of their sustainable practices, Shaw & Smith has embraced organic viticulture. This approach has translated into healthier and more flavoursome fruit, ensuring exceptional wine quality. The winery is currently undergoing the mandatory three-year transition period and is poised to achieve organic certification for their vineyards, solidifying their commitment to responsible and environmentally conscious winemaking.
Discover Shaw & Smith Wines at The Reserve Cellar
Experience the remarkable wines of Shaw & Smith by exploring our extensive collection at The Reserve Cellar. With a diverse range of varietals that capture the essence of the Adelaide Hills, these wines are a true testament to the craftsmanship and passion of Shaw & Smith. Shop now and indulge in the exceptional flavours and elegance of their world-class wines.
