Jasper Hill

Jasper Hill, established in 1975 by Ron and Elva Laughton, is a premier Australian winery renowned for its exceptional Shiraz wines. Situated in the Heathcote region of Central Victoria, it has significantly contributed to the area's reputation as one of Australia's top red wine regions.

History of Jasper Hill Estate

Founded by Ron and Elva Laughton, Jasper Hill has become synonymous with quality and innovation in Australian winemaking. The estate's name is derived from the unique Jasper rock found in the region.

Over the years, Ron Laughton, along with his daughter Emily Laughton McNally, has embraced organic and biodynamic farming practices, ensuring the health and sustainability of their vineyards. The commitment to these practices has been a cornerstone of their philosophy, contributing to the purity and expression of their wines.

Region and Vineyards

Jasper Hill is located in Heathcote, Victoria, an area celebrated for its ancient Cambrian soils, which are over 500 million years old. These soils are characterized by red-brown gravelly loam over basaltic bedrock, ideal for growing low-yield, high-quality vines without the need for irrigation.

The estate comprises 60 acres, divided into three main vineyards: Georgia’s Paddock, Emily’s Paddock, and Cornella Vineyard. The vineyards are dry-farmed and biodynamically managed, planted on their own rootstock, and benefit from Heathcote’s warm days and cool nights, which enhance the grapes' natural acidity and flavor concentration.

Wine Range

Jasper Hill produces a range of wines, primarily focusing on Shiraz, but also cultivating Riesling, Semillon, Nebbiolo, and Cabernet Franc. Key wines include:

• Georgia’s Paddock Shiraz: Known for its deep magenta color, sweet red berries, spice, and earthiness. It has a textured, chalky grip and is well-balanced with concentrated fruit flavors.
• Emily’s Paddock Shiraz: Features a brooding color with dark chocolate and cocoa notes interwoven with spice and minerality. It is ultra-concentrated and silky in texture, with great persistence of flavor.
• Georgia’s Paddock Riesling: Exhibits fresh citrus and floral notes with crisp natural acidity, finishing bone dry.
• Occam’s Razor Shiraz: Sourced from a single organic vineyard south of Heathcote, it is bright crimson with plush, ripe red fruit notes and pronounced tannins.

Did You Know?

Jasper Hill was one of the pioneers in biodynamic viticulture in Australia. Their minimal interventionist approach to winemaking ensures that their wines are a true reflection of the unique terroir of Heathcote. Ron Laughton’s philosophy is that the best wines are those that make themselves, with minimal human interference, allowing the natural qualities of the grapes to shine through.