# M3 Chardonnay (2022)

- **Producer:** Shaw + Smith
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay
- **Region:** South Australia, Australia
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €34
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–12 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** citrus, nectarine, peach, cream, cloves, vanilla, butter

## About this wine

The Shaw + Smith M3 Chardonnay is a 100% Chardonnay from the Adelaide Hills, South Australia. Named after the three founding partners, it represents a significant expression of the region's winemaking potential. The grapes are sourced from Shaw + Smith's own vineyards located at elevations between 380 and 500 meters. The 2022 vintage benefited from a cooler-than-average growing season, contributing to concentrated fruit characteristics and natural acidity. The producer, Shaw + Smith, was established in 1989 with a focus on producing elegant, refined wines from the cool-climate Adelaide Hills.

## Interesting facts

- Named after the three founding partners: Michael Hill Smith, Martin Shaw, and Matthew Hill Smith.
- Sourced from vineyards at elevations between 380 and 500 meters.
- The 2022 vintage received a 96-point rating from James Halliday.
- The wine is suitable for vegan diets.

## Food pairing

The wine's bright acidity cuts through the richness of creamy sauces and fattier proteins like salmon and chicken. Its subtle oak notes complement roasted dishes and mushroom flavors, while its fruit profile harmonizes with seafood.

## Wine making process

The Shaw + Smith M3 Chardonnay is produced using 100% Chardonnay grapes. The winemaking process begins with whole-bunch pressing. Fermentation occurs in French oak barrels, with a mix of new and seasoned vessels. Partial malolactic fermentation is utilized. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes aging on lees for nine months in French oak barriques and puncheons, with some lees stirring. The vineyards are sustainably farmed.