Domaine Paul Jaboulet Aîné - Hermitage - La Chapelle - Red - 2019

Wine:

Rated 98+/100 by Robert Parker and an astonishing 98–100/100 by our Selection Committee, the 2019 Hermitage La Chapelle red stands at the very summit of the appellation. Likely the greatest La Chapelle since 1985—on par with the legendary 1978 and 1961 vintages—this benchmark bottle is destined for the history books. Profoundly intense, built on a firm foundation of structured tannins and vibrant energy, it unfolds with elegance, refinement, and remarkable length. Expect layers of smoky, savory notes, hints of fine oak, and deep black fruit. This is the pinnacle of winemaking—pure emotion in a glass. A wine to be savored in its rightful time, and cellared for decades to come.

Vinification:

Hand harvested in small boxes. Very old Syrah vines on stakes aged between 40 and 95 years old, cultivated according to biodynamic principles. Vatting for around 4 weeks, with gentle extraction. Aged for 15 to 18 months in French oak barrels, 20% of which are new.

Wine from certified organic agriculture.

Color:

Dark red, almost black, with purple highlights.

Nose:

Pure, ripe, fresh and extremely elegant, carried by aromas of black fruits, smoky notes, delicate hints of licorice and oak.

Palate:

This is close to perfection! Power and intensity combine to offer a juice full of refinement, energy, persistence, and elegance. This bottle is of the highest quality and reminds us of the legendary vintages of 1978 and 1961!

Temperature:

Decant 2 hours before serving between 14 and 16°C in a large glass.

Food and wine pairing:

Roast pigeon with morel mushrooms, woodcock in a sauce, roast duckling with delicate spices, hare saddle cooked in a casserole.

Cellar aging:

From today until 2050, and beyond for enthusiasts.

At the pinnacle of the Rhône Valley’s most esteemed producers, Paul Jaboulet Aîné continues to demonstrate remarkable consistency and strength. Under the stewardship of the Frey family—who also own Château de La Lagune and Château Corton C—the estate oversees a 125-hectare vineyard portfolio, including 25 hectares on the legendary Hermitage hill.

At the very top of this steep slope stands a chapel, built in 1235 by the Chevalier de Sterimberg, whose legacy gave name to the estate’s iconic wine. La Chapelle is a sumptuous wine—a selection of the oldest Syrah vines from the finest lieux-dits of Hermitage, all cultivated according to biodynamic principles.