Shaw and Smith Lenswood Pinot Noir 2021

Drink it now or cellar for up to 15 years. No need to decant, but best to open it half an hour before service. The Australian winery Shaw + Smith was founded by cousins Martin Shaw and Michael Hill Smith MW in 1989 with the aim of producing fine wines in the Adelaide Hills. The winery specializes in growing cool climate varietals such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. The work in the cellar is led by Adam Wadewitz, widely regarded as one of Australias most talented winemakers. The Pinot Noir grapes come from the Lenswood site, a vineyard planted in 1999 on clay and schist soils and located at high altitude (455-500 meters above sea level). After manual harvesting, fermentation takes place with 30% whole bunches. The finished wine then rests in French oak. Lenswood Pinot Noir is a red with a strong character and an intense and broad aromatic profile. On the nose it reveals strong notes of black cherries, coconut husk, sage and cardamom and some final hints of pepper. On the palate, it is robust and concentrated, fruity and equipped with an excellent acidity. The tannins are firm and fine. The long finish recalls notes of toasted spices. It is excellent with game birds, and especially with duck confit.