For almost two centuries, the Jaboulet family has shared a common passion for the Rhone Valley, its history, its terroir, its exceptional people and wines.

In 1834, Antoine Jaboulet started working the land on the hills of Hermitage. Through his hard work and passion, he was able to produce a wine of exceptional quality. The business was passed on to his sons Henri and Paul, with the latter later giving his name to the company.

Since then, the generations have continued to succeed one another until in January 2006, the Frey family, longstanding winemakers in Champagne and owners of Chateau La Lagune in Bordeaux, acquired Maison Paul Jaboulet Aine thus adding to its portfolio of prestigious names.

The company’s hundred or so hectares of vineyards are tended with the greatest possible care. The wide diversity of terroirs and the influence of micro-climates favor the production of Syrah, the principal variety and the sole red grape, while Roussanne, Marsanne and Viognier are used for the white wines.

Jaboulet wines represent generations of hard work and a passion for excellence and these values are adhered to by an unswerving commitment to improving vineyards, and through strategic acquisitions and work in the cellars, while respecting the environment at the same time.

The Crozes Hermitage vineyard is the largest of all the northern Rhone Valley Appellations. It extends over 11 communes situated in the Drome, on the left bank of the Rhone. The Domaine de Thalabert has belonged to the Maison Paul Jaboulet Aine since 1834. It is situated on the plain, and is the oldest in the Appellation.

This estate of around 40 ha is located on a pebbly plain that is glacial in origin. These small, round pebbles store heat during the day and release it at night, providing optimum maturity.

The wine is made of Syrah from vines aged 40 to 60 years. The grapes from the Thalabert estate are carefully sorted, meticulously vinified using traditional methods, and traditionally aged in wood for 12 months in the ancient “Vineum” cellar.

The wine has a deep ruby color, limpid and bright. It is intense, complex and aromatic with a blend of red berries and animal notes. On the palate are powerful, fine, and noble tannins. The finish is full and well-balanced.

The 2019 Paul Jaboulet Aine Crozes Hermitage Thalabert is a captivating red wine hailing from the esteemed Rhone region in France. Crafted from the Syrah grape varietal, this vintage showcases the exceptional quality and character that is synonymous with the Northern Rhone. With an alcohol content of 15.0%, this wine exudes power and intensity.

In the glass, the Thalabert presents a deep, saturated ruby hue that is visually stunning. The aromatics are an enticing blend of smoke, cherry, blackberry, and lavender, with a touch of spice that adds complexity. On the palate, this wine offers a full-bodied and layered experience, with flavors of ripe dark fruits, ground pepper, and violet. The chewy tannins provide a firm structure, while the acidity keeps the wine fresh and focused.

Noted wine critic James Suckling awarded this vintage an impressive score of 92 points, praising its warm richness, opulence, and attractive style. He suggests that it will benefit from a few more years of aging before truly reaching its full potential. Jeb Dunnuck also commends the wine, highlighting its earthy dark fruits, pepper, and violet aromatics. While lacking mid-palate density, Dunnuck predicts that the wine may fill out with additional bottle age.

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate gives this wine a score of 93 points, describing it as a big, rich, and dark-fruited effort. The wine is pleasantly velvety, with savory notes of scorched wood and black olive tapenade lingering on the finish. Vinous, another respected publication, awards the Thalabert 92 points, noting its excellent clarity, plush fruit flavors, and allspice nuance.

Wine Spectator also joins in the praise, awarding this wine a score of 91 points. They describe it as an alluring red with fresh boysenberry and black pepper-dusted plum flavors. The wine is underscored by notes of smoked bacon, charred cedar, and mocha, creating a seductive and well-built profile.

Overall, the 2019 Paul Jaboulet Aine Crozes Hermitage Thalabert is a wine of exceptional quality and complexity. With its rich flavors, velvety texture, and potential for aging, it is a true gem from the Rhone region that will impress even the most discerning wine connoisseurs.