Paul Jaboulet Hermitage "La Chapelle" 1996

Details

Let's delve into the legend of this Hermitage La Chapelle from Maison Jaboulet. On the steepest slope of the appellation, also the highest point of the hill, there was originally a small chapel built by the Knight Gaspard de Sterimberg in 1235, upon his return from the Crusades. It is said that the knight founded a religious community here, which is credited with planting the first vines in the place called La Chapelle. The legend is intertwined with other stories, but in any case attests to the quality of this vintage.

It is on very old Syrah vines, all aged between 40 and 95 years old and cultivated biodynamically, that the grapes ripen before being hand-harvested in small crates. Once at the winery, the grapes are placed in vats for four weeks for vinification, with gentle extractions. This is followed by aging in oak barrels, with a proportion of 20% new wood to preserve the fruit's expression and the finesse of the structure.

After a long aging period, the dark color gives way to a medium-deep garnet, and the fresh, floral, and citrus notes evolve into candied red fruits and chocolate and truffle aromas. The tannins are fine and the finish is very long; it's a truly wonderful tasting experience that we wish every wine lover.