Introducing the 2020 Paul Jaboulet Aine Hermitage La Chapelle Blanc, a mesmerizing white wine hailing from the prestigious Hermitage appellation in the Rhone region of France. Crafted exclusively from the Marsanne grape varietal, this exquisite white is a true testament to the winemaking prowess of Paul Jaboulet Aine.
Gaze upon the wine's pale golden hue, shimmering like sunlight on a spring morning, as it captivates your senses. With each swirl, delicate aromas of fresh apricot, pear blossom, and lemon verbena dance gracefully from the glass, mingling harmoniously with notes of crushed flint, cream, and sandalwood.
On the palate, the 2020 Paul Jaboulet Aine Hermitage La Chapelle Blanc reveals its full-bodied nature, yet remains elegant and fresh, a testament to its impeccable balance. Vibrant acidity enlivens the supple and seamless palate, creating a delightful interplay of flavors. The mineral-driven and textured finish lingers on the tongue, leaving a lasting impression.
Renowned wine critic James Suckling was enamored by this wine, awarding it an impressive score of 94 points. Suckling described the wine as having a mineral, textured finish and recommended cellaring it until 2023 to fully appreciate its potential.
Jeb Dunnuck, another respected voice in the wine industry, had a slightly different perspective. Dunnuck found the 2020 Hermitage La Chapelle Blanc to be light and stripped in comparison to previous vintages, noting its fresh and lively but dilute nature.
Meanwhile, Jeff Leve praised the wine's bright, crisp, and juicy character, highlighting its sweet citrus and floral notes. Leve suggested enjoying this wine from 2025 to 2037, allowing it to develop further complexity.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also weighed in, awarding the wine 91+ points and acknowledging its departure from the typical style of Hermitage Blanc. They noted its leaner profile, with pear and citrus flavors enriched by hints of lees, and suggested that it may blossom with age.
Indulge in the 2020 Paul Jaboulet Aine Hermitage La Chapelle Blanc, a wine that captures the essence of a storied terroir and showcases the artistry of its producer. This wine is an invitation to embark on a sensory journey through the Northern Rhone, where tradition and innovation converge to create a truly exceptional white wine experience.