Shaw & Smith Pinot Noir 2019

There are few more revered names in the Adelaide Hills than Shaw & Smith, particularly for their Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz and Chardonnay. But over time the Shaw & Smith Pinot Noir has also slowly risen up to be recognised as one of the region’s best. Generally the wines are subtle, classically understated Pinots where elegance is the key. But 2019 has turned that on its head with an almost decadent Pinot Noir style – still with elegance and finesse – but also almost luscious fruit. They are layers of rich and ripe black cherry, earth, spice, stalk and oak all well balanced in a wave of aromas that leap from the glass.

On the palate the wine is equally generous – fleshy fruit that is complex and dense underpinned by supple tannins. There are also some pretty autumnal elements – spice, truffle and meat in the background for additional interest. It finishes long and strong too driven by that powerful core of fruit. The wine probably won’t last as long as some other vintages but delivers flavour and complexity in spades right now and over the medium term.