Jasper Hill Georgia’s Paddock Shiraz 2023

Variety:Syrah (Shiraz)Country, Region: Australia, Heathcote

Georgia’s Paddock: 12 hectares of Shiraz yielding about three tonnes per hectare (20hl/ha). Three hectares of Riesling giving about three tonnes per hectare (20hl/ha). Planted in 1975/76 with further small plantings done after the vineyard was ravaged by bushfire in 1987. One hectare each of Semillon planted in 1992 (since grafted over), and Nebbiolo planted in 1993.

‘Reminiscent of our wines in the early years, a true Georgias Paddock style of raspberry with red earth notes and soft integrated tannins. While this vintage initially appears a little closed, given a few minutes, opens up to a brilliant red fruit and spicy nose. Juicy strawberries and fresh raspberry fill a generous palate with great length. Delicious now but easily cellared for those with patience. High grade cork sealed.’Emily McNally.

‘The nose is deep and brooding with savory aromas of damson plums, dark chocolate, licorice, cinnamon bark and graphite. The full-bodied palate has finely integrated tannins and focused acidity supported by a tightly bound mouthfeel, showing notes of macerated figs, black olives, mulberries and spices. A refined Australian classic that will age gracefully for decades. Drinkable now but best from 2030.’ 96 points, JS Wine Ratings, October 2024.

‘Whether its down to this very special rift of dirt or not, these wines are simply incredible.’Robert Parker Jr, The Wine Advocate.

‘the best nebbiolo Ive found outside Piedmont.’David Williams, The Guardian, April 2019.

Established in 1975 by Ron and Elva Laughton, Jasper Hill producers some of Australias most compelling and sought after wines. Located at Heathcote in Central Victoria on ancient Cambrian soils-deep, red coloured, well drained gravely loams on undulating hillsides. These support low-vigour vine growth without the need for supplementary irrigation.

The wines are produced entirely on the estate using organic and biodynamic principles. Inter row mulching and self made organic compost is used to improve soil organic matter. This allows greater bio-diversity in micro flora and fauna, supporting large earthworm populations beneficial for natural soil fertility. Following these principles no synthetic chemicals have ever been applied to the soils or vines. Vines are grown on un-grafted root-stock and non irrigated, expressing flavours and characteristics natural to their variety and terroir. Grown at elevations of 1000 feet the vines benefit from warm days but cool nights, imperative for natural acid retention and structure. None of the wines from Jasper Hill vineyards has even been acid adjusted at any stage. These are natural wines of striking purity. With 35 vintages to their credit, these wines have a long established record for ageing gracefully with careful cellaring.