2014 Shaw + Smith Shiraz, Adelaide Hills

Shaw + Smith Shiraz is a medium bodied cool-climate Shiraz, in which balance is more important than power. The 2014 Shiraz is fresh and vibrant with red fruit aromas, and some dried herb notes. The palate shows bright fruit (cherry, raspberry and mulberry), a hint of dark chocolate and plenty of structure, with grippy tannins that build through to the finish. Has the concentration and structure to develop fine tertiary characters in bottle over the next 15 years. ‘One of Australia's best cool climate shirazes, low yields (especially in 2014) and site selection all-important. Hand-picked, partial whole bunch and remainder whole berry open-fermented, matured in Frensh oak (33% new) for 14 months. A super-fragrant red cherry bouquet, with mulberry, licorice and plum notes joining the vibrant red fruits of the palate, backed by firm, precisely framed tannins. Drink to 2030.’

96 points James Halliday winecompanion.com.au