Jaboulet Crozes Hermitage Thalabert 2020 (1x75cl)

The Crozes-Hermitage 'Thalabert' from Paul Jaboulet Aîné stands as a benchmark for the appellation, representing one of the Northern Rhône's most iconic expressions of Syrah. Sourced from a historic parcel of old vines, the vineyard's unique terroir is characterised by its ancient alluvial terraces covered with 'galets roulés' – large, rounded river stones that absorb and radiate heat, promoting optimal ripeness and concentration in the grapes.

Jaboulet's meticulous winemaking for 'Thalabert' typically involves a traditional approach, often incorporating a proportion of whole-bunch fermentation to enhance aromatic complexity and structure. The wine undergoes extended maturation, primarily in large oak foudres and a smaller percentage of barriques, allowing for a slow evolution that integrates its powerful fruit with savoury nuances and firm, yet refined, tannins. The 2020 vintage promises a wine of significant depth and longevity, embodying the classic Crozes-Hermitage profile with a distinct Thalabert signature.

Tasting notes

The 2020 'Thalabert' presents a deep, opaque ruby hue in the glass. The nose is immediately captivating, unfolding with an intense aromatic tapestry of ripe blackcurrant, blackberry, and dark plum, interwoven with classic Northern Rhône markers: crushed black pepper, cured olive, smoked game, and a hint of violet. Subtle undertones of liquorice and graphite emerge, testament to its terroir and careful oak integration.

On the palate, it is full-bodied and concentrated, yet remarkably balanced. A core of dark fruit is framed by a robust, finely-grained tannic structure and a vibrant acidity that carries through to a persistent finish. Layers of savoury complexity, including garrigue herbs and a mineral streak, complement the fruit, promising significant evolution with bottle age. This is a powerful yet elegant expression of Crozes-Hermitage, built for the cellar.