2003 Jasper Hill Georgia's Paddock Shiraz

Jasper Hill is a 65-acre estate in Heathcote, central Victoria. It was founded in 1975 by Ron and Elva Laughton and they still operate the estate. The estate is best known for Shiraz but it also produces Nebbiolo, Grenache, Riesling, Viognier and Semillon. In partnership with Michel Chapoutier of Hermitage, France, the estate is also making several Rhone-style wines. Robert M. Parker Jr. calls Jasper Hill “one of the top guns in Heathcote.”

Victoria is one of Australia’s smallest and coolest wine regions, yet one of the nation’s most dynamic and quality-oriented. Unlike many of Australia’s wine regions, which include many large, industrial producers, most Victoria producers are small, independently owned and crush fewer than 25 tons of grapes per year. With more than 600 wineries, Victoria has more producers than any other state, though it ranks third in production. Winemaking started in Victoria in the 1850s when Swiss immigrant Hubert de Castella recognized the area’s winemaking potential. There are many climates and topographies in Victoria, from dry, irrigated inland terroirs to cooler, higher regions. Top sub-appellations include Heathcote, Rutherglen and the Yarra Valley. Shiraz and Chardonnay are the principal grapes grown, though Viognier, Pinot Noir and Tannant are also grown. Of special note is the region’s history with sweet dessert wines made of Muscat. Some are called “Tokay” and are made from the Muscadelle grape. Red dessert, Madeira-style wines are also produced.

This grape is grown in milder climates and produces a medium-to full-bodied wine. It is also known as Shiraz, but should not be confused with Petit Sirah, which was developed by crossing Syrah with Peloursin.