WINE OF THE MONTH
WINE OF THE MONTH
Paul Jaboulet Aîné, Domaine de La Chapelle, 2021
One of the most iconic producers in the world, Jaboulet know a thing or two about crafting breath-taking Rhône wines. We therefore can’t wait to show off our wine of the month to you. Say hello to the 2021 Domaine de La Chapelle: an 100% Syrah that sure packs a punch.
Residing on the cascading slopes of the Hermitage hills, La Chapelle has been described as a potent expression of this unique and unforgiving terroir. A favourite of the world’s top critics, the 2021 is praised for its complex and aromatic nose, featuring flavours of forest berries, liquorice, sour cherries and mushroom, to name a few. It certainly sounds unusual, and our mouths are watering just thinking about it.
Since being taken over by the Frey family in 2016 there have been a few changes over at Jaboulet, notedly the switch towards organic farming. Its 2021 vintage marks another shift, seeing this iconic wine switch its name to “Domaine de la Chapelle”, making it a must-have collector’s item for fans of this estate. Be sure to grab a highly-coveted case while you can.
96 Points – James Suckling
Incredibly deep and complex nose for the 2021 vintage with masses of forest berry, licorice and autumn trumpet mushroom aromas, with an enormous tannin structure that’s very refined. The classic power of Hermitage comes through at the extremely long finish. Although the tannins are anything but aggressive, the aromas will need considerable time to fully unfurl. From parcels on the western side of the Hermitage hill with predominantly granite soils, the largest parcel being in Le Meal. From organically grown grapes. Drinkable now, but best from 2026.
95 Points – Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW
The 2021 Hermitage La Chapelle, 100% Syrah, is medium to deep garnet-purple in color. It needs a little coaxing to bring out beautifully perfumed notes of black cherries, violets, and black raspberries, leading to wafts of charcoal, cracked black pepper, and wild sage with a hint of iron ore. The medium-bodied palate is elegantly crafted and refreshing, with very soft tannins and a long aniseed-laced finish. This was the year the name was changed from Jaboulet’s La Chapelle to Domaine de La Chapelle, still owned by the Frey family.
95 Points – Jane Anson
First time on the Place for this iconic wine from Caroline Frey, with a long and illustrious history in Hermitage. Glorious even in a challenging vintage, with the oh so slow release of cut herbs, sour cherry and raspberry flavours, white pepper spice, fragrant peony and iris flowers, both fragrant and gentle, all bound up with fine tannins. Leaning into the gentle pleasures of the vintage. New label also.
2021 Paul Jaboulet Aîné, Domaine de La Chapelle, 2021
Hermitage, Rhône Valley
Vintage: 2021
Case Format: 3x75cl
Tax Status: IN-BOND
