1998 Jasper Hill Emily's Paddock Shiraz Cabernet Franc 750ml

Overview

The 1998 Jasper Hill Emily's Paddock Shiraz Cabernet Franc 750ml is a mature single-vineyard release from Jasper Hill in Heathcote, Victoria. Produced predominantly from Shiraz with Cabernet Franc, Emily's Paddock is distinguished by its firm tannin structure, concentrated flavour and long-lived style.

The 1998 vintage was described at release as deeply coloured, complex and perfumed, with a creamy texture, abundant natural acidity and silky tannins derived from ripe fruit and new French oak. With more than two decades of bottle development, it represents a rare opportunity to experience a mature expression of this renowned Heathcote vineyard.

Vintage & Winemaking

Emily's Paddock is Jasper Hill's smallest vineyard, covering approximately 2.7 hectares on an easterly facing slope. Its naturally low yields produce concentrated fruit and wines recognised for their firm tannin profile.

The Shiraz and Cabernet Franc were co-fermented using natural yeasts, remained on skins for five to six weeks and were then gently pressed. The wine matured for 12 months in French oak. Jasper Hill's original release note for the 1998 vintage specifically records the influence of new French oak, which contributed structure and a creamy textural quality without obscuring the wine's fruit and natural acidity.

Product Highlights

• Single-vineyard wine from Jasper Hill's smallest vineyard
• Shiraz and Cabernet Franc co-fermented with natural yeasts
• Extended skin contact for five to six weeks
• Matured for 12 months in French oak
• Awarded 95 points by Andrew Caillard MW in 2017
• Rare mature release from the 1998 Heathcote vintage

Tasting Notes

Appearance

Medium-deep crimson, retaining considerable depth while showing the development expected of a mature wine.

Aroma

Concentrated aromas of dark berries, dark chocolate and graphite are joined by espresso, leafy herbs and developing forest-floor nuances.

Palate

Well concentrated and firmly structured, with deep dark-berry fruit, dark chocolate and espresso-oak complexity. Dense, ripe tannins are balanced by natural acidity, while secondary savoury and leafy characters reflect its extended bottle development.

Finish

Long and firm, with lingering graphite, dark chocolate, espresso and subtle leafy notes.

Food Pairing

The 1998 Jasper Hill Emily's Paddock Shiraz Cabernet Franc pairs beautifully with:

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

Serving Temperature: 17–18°C

Cellaring Potential

The 1998 Emily's Paddock is a mature wine that should be considered ready to drink. A 2017 retrospective assessment suggested that well-cellared bottles could continue drinking through approximately 2035. As with all back-vintage wines, its current condition and remaining longevity will depend heavily on storage history, fill level and closure integrity.