Overview
The 2003 Jasper Hill Emily's Paddock Shiraz Cabernet Franc 750ml is a mature single-vineyard wine from Jasper Hill in Heathcote, Victoria. Predominantly Shiraz with Cabernet Franc, Emily's Paddock is recognised for its concentrated fruit, powerful tannin structure and distinctive savoury character.
At release, the 2003 vintage was noted for its exceptional length and structure, with a concentrated core of fruit framed by substantial tannins and creamy French oak. Now fully mature, it offers a developed expression of one of Jasper Hill's most distinctive and age-worthy Heathcote wines.
Vintage & Winemaking
The 2003 Emily's Paddock was released as a deeply structured wine with concentrated fruit, pronounced tannins and significant cellaring potential. French oak contributed a creamy background while allowing the wine's fruit concentration and firm structural character to remain prominent.
Over time, the wine developed complex savoury characteristics including dark cherry, roasted nuts, tobacco leaf, leather, herbs and chocolate. Its persistent tannins and pronounced acidity remained defining features in later retrospective tastings.
Product Highlights
| Attribute |
Details |
| Producer |
Jasper Hill |
| Wine |
Emily's Paddock Shiraz Cabernet Franc |
| Vintage |
2003 |
| Region |
Heathcote, Victoria |
| Country |
Australia |
| Variety |
Shiraz and Cabernet Franc |
| Alcohol |
15.0% |
| Volume |
750ml |
| Oak |
French oak |
| Style |
Mature Single-Vineyard Shiraz Cabernet Franc |
| Cellaring |
Drink Now–2028 |
- Single-vineyard release from Jasper Hill in Heathcote
- Predominantly Shiraz with Cabernet Franc
- Powerful, concentrated style with substantial tannin structure
- French oak contributing texture and complexity
- Awarded 91 points by Andrew Caillard MW in 2017
- Rare mature release from the 2003 Heathcote vintage
Tasting Notes
Appearance
Medium-deep crimson with mature garnet tones, retaining notable colour and depth for its age.
Aroma
Developed aromas of dark cherry, roasted chestnut and leather are layered with tobacco leaf, garden herbs, eucalyptus and subtle savoury notes.
Palate
Concentrated and firmly structured, showing dark cherry, roasted nuts and chocolate alongside tobacco, leafy herbs and savoury complexity. Vigorous tannins and pronounced acidity give the palate a dense, muscular profile.
Finish
Firm, dry and persistent, with lingering chocolate, roasted nut, tobacco and leafy notes supported by substantial mature tannins.
Food Pairing
The 2003 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 2003 Emily's Paddock is fully mature and within its recommended drinking period. The most recent official retrospective assessment suggested drinking through approximately 2028. Further development will depend heavily on storage history, fill level and closure condition, and bottle variation should be expected.
Recommended drinking window: Drink now–2028.
