1997 Jasper Hill Emily's Paddock Shiraz Cabernet Franc 750ml

Overview

The 1997 Jasper Hill Emily's Paddock Shiraz Cabernet Franc 750ml is a rare, mature single-vineyard wine from one of Heathcote's most respected producers. Predominantly Shiraz with a small addition of Cabernet Franc, Emily's Paddock is known for its powerful structure, mineral character and savoury complexity, offering a distinctly different expression from the nearby Georgia's Paddock vineyard.

Only approximately 150 cases of the 1997 vintage were produced, making it an exceptionally scarce release. Now approaching three decades of bottle age, this collectible Heathcote wine combines concentrated fruit, fine chalky tannins and developed tertiary character while retaining impressive freshness and length.

Vintage & Winemaking

The 1997 release was produced predominantly from Shiraz, with less than 5% Cabernet Franc contributing additional aromatic and structural complexity. The two varieties were grown together in the Emily's Paddock vineyard, a low-yielding site established in the 1970s on Heathcote's ancient Cambrian soils.

The fruit was traditionally vinified with minimal intervention, allowing the vineyard's natural concentration, acidity and mineral character to remain at the centre of the wine. Maturation in French oak added vanilla, malt and mocha complexity while supporting the wine's dense fruit and considerable tannin structure. With only around 150 cases produced, the 1997 vintage remains one of the rarest mature Emily's Paddock releases.

Product Highlights

• Rare single-vineyard release with approximately 150 cases produced
• Predominantly Shiraz with less than 5% Cabernet Franc
• Estate-grown on Heathcote's renowned Cambrian soils
• Awarded 100 points by Andrew Caillard MW in a 2007 tasting
• Classic mature Jasper Hill with outstanding provenance
• Highly collectible Australian back-vintage wine

Tasting Notes

Appearance

Medium-deep garnet and crimson, showing mature brick tones while retaining impressive depth and vitality.

Aroma

Complex aromas of plum, raspberry, redcurrant and dark cherry are layered with liquorice, dark chocolate, mocha, mint and leafy herbs. Further notes of earth, mushroom and savoury oak emerge with air, reflecting the wine's extended bottle development.

Palate

Concentrated and richly textured, with fleshy plum, redcurrant and dark cherry fruit supported by chocolate, liquorice and mocha complexity. Fine chalky tannins and fresh natural acidity provide definition, while the Cabernet Franc contributes subtle leafy and herbal nuances.

Finish

Long, mineral and firmly structured, with lingering dark fruit, bitter chocolate, chinotto, mocha and fine savoury tannins.

Food Pairing

The 1997 Jasper Hill Emily's Paddock Shiraz Cabernet Franc pairs beautifully with:

• Dry-aged ribeye steak
• Slow-roasted lamb shoulder
• Braised beef cheeks
• Roast venison with juniper
• Mature cheddar or aged Comté

Serving Temperature: 17–18°C

Cellaring Potential

The 1997 Emily's Paddock is now fully mature and within its ideal drinking period. Well-stored bottles should continue to offer impressive complexity and structure, although careful service and gentle handling are recommended for a wine of this age.