MMAD Vineyard – A New Chapter for Old Vines
In the heart of Blewitt Springs, where ancient vines meet iron-rich sands, MMAD Vineyard has emerged as one of the most exciting boutique projects in Australian wine. MMAD isn’t just a clever acronym—it’s the initials of four of the country’s most respected wine minds: Martin Shaw, Michael Hill Smith MW, Adam Wadewitz, and David LeMire MW.
A Team of Titans
Michael Hill Smith and Martin Shaw—cousins and co-founders of Shaw + Smith—have been shaping Australian wine since 1989. Adam Wadewitz (Chief Winemaker) and David LeMire (Head of Sales & Marketing) now lead Shaw + Smith as Co-CEOs, with experience also spanning Tolpuddle Vineyard in Tasmania and single-vineyard wines in the Adelaide Hills.
With MMAD, the team turns its attention to Blewitt Springs, a subregion of McLaren Vale renowned for its old bush vines, cooling sea breezes, and distinct terroir. Their goal? To craft focused, expressive wines from some of Australia’s most treasured vineyards.
The Vineyard
Located in the “dress circle” of Blewitt Springs, the MMAD Vineyard includes Grenache planted in 1939, Shiraz from 1941, and Chenin Blanc from 1964. The vineyard’s sandy soils and underlying ironstone create wines with perfume, finesse, and structure. All fruit is hand-harvested, with minimal intervention in the winery to allow terroir to shine through.
The Wines
Each vintage is a reflection of place and season. The 2023 MMAD Grenache is perfumed, bright, and beautifully structured. The 2023 MMAD Shiraz balances power with poise, showing the lift and elegance that Blewitt Springs does so well.
At Wine Simple, we’re proud to offer both wines as part of our commitment to Australia’s best boutique producers.
FAQs
What does MMAD stand for?
MMAD is named after the first initials of its founders: Martin Shaw, Michael Hill Smith MW, Adam Wadewitz, and David LeMire MW.
Where is MMAD Vineyard located?
MMAD is based in Blewitt Springs, a subregion of McLaren Vale in South Australia known for its sandy soils and old vine Grenache and Shiraz.
What wines does MMAD produce?
MMAD currently produces Grenache, Shiraz, and Chenin Blanc from their estate vineyards, focusing on purity, balance, and expression of site.