In Bond Fine Wine. 2016 Jaboulet Hermitage La Chapelle, Hermitage, Rhone, France. Red Rhone in 6x75cl. Top critic score: 96/100 (JD). Drinking window: 2020–2050. Sold in bond by Albany Vintners, independent fine wine merchants.
The oldest vineyard in Crozes-Hermitage appellation, Domaine de Thalabert has been owned by Paul Jaboulet Aîné since 1834. The domaine now covers 45 hectares with deeply rooted old vines, planted from 1934 to 1975 which produce small and intense berries. This historic estate is unquestionably a fabulous terroir with the 1961, but also the 1978 and 1990 vintages now wine legends. 100% Syrah made from old vines on the best granite soils. When young, it can be earthy & rich & yet, "when mature, La Chapelle comes into its own.
Joe Czerwinski (JC) — 96/100 · Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com, 31/10/2018 · Drink 2020-2040
Sourced from the granitic western portion of the appellation, the 2016 Hermitage La Chapelle features mouthwatering aromas of black olives and charred beef. It's full-bodied and creamy-velvety in texture, incredibly lush without being overtly fruity. In fact, it's largely savory, with elegant shadings of leather and spice on the long, silky finish. Yet despite being delicious now, this still has…
Joe Czerwinski (JC) — 95–97/100 · Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com, 29/12/2017 · Drink 2020-2040
Winemaker Jacques Devernois likens the 2016 Hermitage La Chapelle to a woman's red dress, calling it charming and flashy. It looks like it will appeal young, as this prospective sample had ample concentration but was also supple in feel. Hints of smoke, crushed stone and pencil shavings frame cassis fruit in this full-bodied and creamy-textured wine. It finishes long, with hints of vanilla and gr…
James Suckling (JS) — 97–98/100 · JamesSuckling.com, 29/08/2018
Very spicy and peppery with blue-granite aromas plus hints of grilled and smoked meat. Cloves and nutmeg. Full body, round and juicy tannins and a super spicy finish that almost burns with so much character yet turns fine and focused at the end. A beauty.