The 2007 Georgia’s Paddock Shiraz received the same elevage as the Occam’s Razor. It is sourced from a biodynamically farmed vineyard yielding a microscopic 1 ton/acre. It offers up a nose of smoke, spice box, lavender, game, and blueberry. Fleshy and relatively forward on the palate, this sweetly-fruited, succulent effort will benefit from 4-6 years of additional bottle age and offer prime drinking from 2014 to 2027. 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 aughton 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. It goes without saying that these impeccably made wines age beautifully. The new releases do not miss a beat. Importer: Old Bridge Cellars, Napa; CA; www.oldbridgecellars.com

Grainy tannins play against toasted bread accents and a core of ripe cherry and plum fruit in this firm red, which finishes with a hint of coffee and plenty of finesse. Best from 2012 through 2017. 100 cases imported.??–HS??Region: Australia / Victoria / Heathcote Select to Add

Being inland and dry-farmed, Jasper Hill wines tend to show considerable vintage variation. This 2007 is slightly raisiny and warm, with hints of chocolate and dried berries allied to firm tannins. Cellar it and hope for the best; try after 2015.——J.C.(3/1/2010)—— 88