A Top-Class Offer from a Northern Rhône Titan
Founded in 1834 by Antoine Jaboulet, this was initially a domaine and négociant entity of modest size. Under various charismatic and innovative leaders, the house’s reputation went from strength to strength throughout much of the 19th and 20th centuries.
A significant milestone was the Jaboulet family’s purchase of holdings on the famous Hermitage hill above the town of Tain in the year 1919. Named after the 13th century chapel nestled amongst the vines, the iconic cuvée of Hermitage La Chapelle celebrated 100 years on the market just last year. Since 2006, the estate has been under the ownership of the Frey family. With the gifted winemaker Caroline Frey in the driving seat and a deluge of excellent vintages over the past decade, there really is no better time to be buying Jaboulet.
At Sotheby’s Wine, we are privileged and delighted to offer the inimitable Hermitage La Chapelle from Jaboulet in the 2010, 2013, 2016, 2017 and 2018 vintages. Look no further than the 2018 for somewhat softer edges to the mouthfeel and less insistent acidity, but choose any other of the remaining vintages for complex, seductive experiences that will only continue to delight and unfurl in the years to come. Do consider using a decanter when serving these wines and saddle up for the robust assault on your senses that Jaboulet’s La Chapelle promises.
Not to be overlooked in our selection is the estate’s cuvée La Maison Bleue. More approachable both in terms of price point and style, this wine sources fruit from the eastern reaches of the hill of Hermitage, including vineyards such as les Rocoules. 2017 was hailed as a superb vintage in the Northern Rhône, so this is sure to please.
