1982 Hermitage La Chapelle, Paul Jaboulet Aîné (ex-domaine 2022 release)
Jaboulet’s Hermitage La Chapelle is a wine of legendary status, with a great legacy of past vintages. For many, it is the defining wine of the Hermitage hill. It comes from a blend of parcels, and takes its name from the small hermit’s chapel that sits at the western end of the hill, with a commanding view of the appellation and the town of Tain-l’Hermitage and the Rhône River below. It’s a pilgrimage spot for any wine lover visiting the region. Released in limited quantities in 2022 from the domaine’s cellars, this is the first time Jaboulet have released the 1982 in earnest since its youth. In the intervening years it has developed the tawny colour of great old Syrah. Once the cork is pulled, the nose takes a few minutes to open up, but as it meets the oxygen and settles down, a wonderful world of truffles, dried fruit, Hoisin sauce, and spice opens up in the glass before you. The journey continues on the palate, which has a dark chocolate orange character and wonderful length. It is at its fully mature peak, and should hold for another five years like this.