In Bond Fine Wine. 2018 Jaboulet Crozes Hermitage Thalabert, Crozes-Hermitage, Rhone, France. Red Rhone in 6x75cl. Top critic score: 93–95/100 (JC). Drinking window: 2020–2030. 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) — 93–95/100 · Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com, 19/12/2019 · Drink 2020-2030
Although the fruit sourcing has changed from the old days, the 2018 Crozes Hermitage Domaine de Thalabert remains a solid offering in the Jaboulet lineup. Violets accent blackberries and plums on the nose, while the palate is full-bodied, lush and velvety, underscored by doses of salinity and licorice on the lengthy finish.
Jeb Dunnuck (JD) — 92–94/100 · JebDunnuck.com, 12/12/2019
The 2018 Crozes-Hermitage Domaine de Thalabert comes from deeper, pebbly soils and is a full-bodied, opulent wine. Notes of blackcurrants, tobacco leaf, ground pepper, and melted licorice all flow to a full-bodied wine that has tons of baby fat as well as sound underlying structure.