Shaw + Smith Lenswood Chardonnay 2021

Whole bunch pressed, fermented in puncheons of which 30% were new before full malolactic fermentation and 10 months in oak. The 2021 vintage has you leaning in a little closer to hear the deft tones of this incarnation. Greengage plums, yellow apple skin and a puff of Johnson’s and Johnson’s talcum powder. There is sliced lemon blank, sliced okra and golden kiwi. The acumen of site and vintage is well displayed here with a real restraint shown to highlight the fine edges and detail in the mild vintage. Despite its balletic grace the power still drives down the middle palate and, like long legs in shadow, they continue to grow. This will age very well. A lovely drink that deserves a little bit of hush to really enjoy. Drink with chilled yabbies and the thinnest sheet of pork lardo resting on top.

Shanteh Wale

Contributor at Wine Companion

Shanteh cut her teeth at Sydney’s Award-Winning Quay restaurant where she worked for over a decade and was Head Sommelier from 2018 till 2022. She has been nominated for the Good Food Guide Sommelier of the Year award on three occasions and claims that her experience as a Len Evans scholar as one of the highlights of her career. Shanteh hosts her own weekly podcast ‘Over A Glass’ with the Deep in the Weeds Network and spends her time writing for various publications and judging at numerous wine shows across the country.

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