Jasper Hill Emily's Paddock Shiraz - Cabernet Franc 2022

Region and Vineyards

Emily’s Paddock is situated in the Heathcote region of Victoria, Australia, known for its ancient Cambrian soils that date back over 500 million years. These soils, combined with Heathcote's warm days and cool nights, create ideal conditions for producing high-quality, low-yield wines.

The vineyard practices are entirely biodynamic, emphasizing sustainability and the natural health of the vineyard without artificial interventions.

Winemaking

This vintage is composed of 95% Shiraz and 5% Cabernet Franc. The winemaking approach at Jasper Hill is notably minimalist. The Laughton family employs traditional methods, allowing the natural characteristics of the fruit to shine through. The grapes undergo natural fermentation without the addition of yeast or nutrients, and malolactic fermentation occurs spontaneously.

The wine matures for 15 months in French oak barriques, which enhances its complexity and depth. No fining is performed before bottling, maintaining the wine’s pure expression of terroir.

Did You Know?

Jasper Hill's commitment to biodynamic viticulture and minimal intervention winemaking practices ensures that each bottle is a true reflection of its vineyard’s unique character. This approach allows the natural flavors and complexities of the grapes to develop without unnecessary additives, making their wines distinctively authentic.

Tasting Notes

The Emily’s Paddock Shiraz - Cabernet Franc presents a vibrant red-blue color. On the nose, it offers perfumed aromas with a complexity that is immediately engaging. The palate is rich and full, featuring flavors of blackberry, red currant, and a hint of lightly minted cola. The wine is well-structured with impeccable tannins and abundant natural acidity, leading to a long, satisfying finish. 

Wine Pairing Ideas

This wine pairs wonderfully with rich dishes such as grilled lamb, beef tenderloin, and aged cheeses. The complex flavors and robust structure also complement hearty stews and braised meats.

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.