Paul Jaboulet Aine 2018 Crozes Hermitage, Domaine de Thalabert

Domaine de Thalabert is the first vineyard owned by Paul Jaboulet, purchased in 1834. The vines are grown on pebbly terraces that are glacial in origin, with the bedrock close to the topsoil. These round stones store heat during the day and release it at night, providing optimum and regular maturity. It is farmed biodynamically and the vines are 60-80+ years old. This 2018 was aged in French oak, 20% new.

Jeb Dunnuck scored this 94 points saying “The 2019 Crozes-Hermitage Domaine De Thalabert showed well, with a floral, pepper, and sappy herb style as well as plenty of darker cherry and currant fruit. With medium to full body, a vibrant, elegant texture, present tannins, and good acidity, this is a classic, balanced Thalabert to hide for 2-4 years and enjoy over the following decade or more.”

The Wine Advocate scored this 93 points saying “The 2018 Crozes Hermitage Domaine de Thalabert boasts scents of cracked pepper, black olives, spice and ripe plums. Showing lovely weight and richness on the medium to full-bodied palate, this vintage is a bit forward and just plain yummy, framed by soft, dusty tannins and lingering notes of licorice and espresso on the finish.”

James Suckling scored this 93 points saying “The ripeness and opulence here is already impressive with tile, brick, ripe-plum and clove character on both the nose and palate. It’s full-bodied with lots of fruit, but a line of fine tannins runs through the center palate.”