2006 Shiraz Emily's Paddock

The 2006 Shiraz Emily’s Paddock is a saturated purple color with legs that ooze down the glass. On the nose it reveals some minty eucalyptus along with hints of underbrush, lavender, mineral, blueberry, and blackberry liqueur. It is a bit more opulent and rich than the Georgia’s Paddock cuvee and should have a slightly longer drinking window. Ron Laughton was one of Heathcote’s original pioneers 25 years ago and now finds himself surrounded by more than 75 wineries. Nevertheless, Jasper Hill (along with Wild Duck Creek) remains at the top of the pyramid. It is a no frills winery with all of the Laughton family’s energy devoted to viticulture. The vineyards are dry-farmed and organic. They have also begun a joint venture with Michel Chapoutier to develop a vineyard adjacent to the existing property. When I visited the winery in September 2008, Ron Laughton was kind enough to show me a virtually complete vertical of both Georgia’s and Emily’s Paddock which I will post on my blog space on erobertparker.com. It goes without saying that these impeccably made wines age beautifully. Importer: Gavin Speight, Old Bridge Cellars, Napa, CA; www.jasperhill.com