Paul Jaboulet Aîné Hermitage 'La Chapelle' 1997
Country: France
Region: Northern Rhône
Grapes: Syrah
Vintage: 1997
Grown on the legendary hillside of Hermitage, the iconic La Chapelle wine of Jaboulet is named for a tiny chapel built by the knight Gaspard de Stérimberg in 1235 and the vines he planted there after his return from the Crusades. They sit on the highest point of the appellation's steepest hillside and while it's history blurs myth and reality, the quality of this iconic wine is unquestionable. The Syrah vines, which range from between 40 and 95 years old, are all grown biodynamically.
1997 was a hallowed vintage in the Northern Rhône, and this is a spectacular example of its mind blowing longevity and finesse. A floral, smoky nose opens up to reveal delicate raspberry fruit and beguiling leather, game, sweet spice and dried herbs on the smooth, elegant finish.