Shaw + Smith M3 Chardonnay, Adelaide Hills 2023

Long known as one of Australia's better Chardonnays, this is all about style and sophistication. Delicate aromas of white flowers and lemon blossom give way to vibrant citrus and juicy nectarine flavours. The touch of French oak is subtle, adding complexity without stealing the spotlight. Bright acidity and a generous burst of flavour keep it fresh and elegant, with enough structure to age beautifully. It's a perfect balance of vibrancy and restraint, showing just how good Adelaide Hills Chardonnay can be.

A refined Chardonnay like this is a great match for roast chicken with lemon and thyme or pan-seared duck breast, as its citrusy brightness and creamy texture complement savoury flavours, and it'll only get better with another year or so in the bottle.

The renowned South Australian wine estate of Shaw + Smith was the result of a long lunch in 1989 when cousins Martin Shaw and Michael Hill Smith decided to realise a long-held dream to make wine together. Based in the rolling Adelaide Hills their vision remains as it was which is to make exciting, refined wines exclusively from this part of the world that ranks among Australia's best viticultural areas. The wines are made from a number of sites throughout the Adelaide Hills. They specialise in grape varieties suited to the cooler climate, namely Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Shiraz. This approach and their skill has made them one of the most successful producers in the Adelaide Hills.