Domaines Paul Jaboulet Aîné - Hermitage La Maison Bleue 2022

Bettane & Desseauve

About the estate:

Caroline Frey diligently manages this institution in the valley. The changes she has implemented have never been so successful, both in the vineyard and in the winery. The red wines are refined and elegant, with fresh fruit aromas, while the whites are fresh and sophisticated. At the top of the range is the legendary Hermitage La Chapelle, a skilful blend of Méal and Bessards, two of the most famous slopes on the hill.

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate

About wine:

Grown on vines planted on the eastern slope of the Hermitage hill, Hermitage La Maison Bleue 2022 evokes aromas of loamy soil, blackberries, iris, and black berries, which mingle with floral notes when aerated. Medium to full-bodied, structured and concentrated, it has a fleshy, dense core of fruit and velvety but abundant tannins, with a charming, young and long finish. More fleshy and deeper than many Hermitage wines due to its clay soils without granite influence, this is an enveloping and surprising Hermitage.

RVF - La Revue du Vin de France / Guide des Meilleurs Vins de France

About the estate:

Founded in 1834, Paul Jaboulet Aîné remained a family-owned business until 2006, when it was acquired by the Frey financial company. In addition to its wine trading business, which has significantly reduced its volumes, "PJA" owns the second largest vineyard estate in Hermitage. Its 25 hectares (21 of red, four of white) are located in prime locations in Le Méal, Les Greffieux, Les Dionnières, Les Roucoules and a few Bessards in the far west of the hillside. Until the early 1990s, this institution produced some of the world's most legendary Syrahs, including La Chapelle, a blend of aged Syrahs. Depending on the vintage, between 30,000 and 80,000 bottles of La Chapelle red are produced. The selection is based on the finesse of the tannins and the depth. The middle and lower parts of the Méal hillside form the heart of the cuvée. After a year of aging, with 15 to 20% new barrels, the less dense batches are set aside and go into La Petite Chapelle (now called Maison Bleue), to be drunk within five to seven years.

Jancis Robinson

About wine:

The nose is fleshy, spicy, rich with notes of game, blood, and iron. The palate is ripe and round with an opulent texture—firm, succulent tannins that are well integrated. The fruit is dark, fleshy, gamey, and spicy. A full finish with moderate acidity and a dense, dark finish. Well-balanced, but a little imposing!

Vinous

James Suckling

About wine:

Despite its concentration and generous structure, this wine is an elegant and precise expression of Hermitage. It offers a broad spectrum of black and red berries, with complex notes of toasted rosemary and smoke. The fine, generous tannins develop impressively on the finish and need a little time to harmonize completely, but they are enveloped in sufficient richness to be exciting already. From vineyards located on the eastern slope of the Hermitage hill. Made from organically grown grapes. Best enjoyed from 2027 onwards.

Jeb Dunnuck

About wine:

Produced entirely from the eastern part of the appellation, Hermitage La Maison Bleue 2022 was completely destemmed and aged in 15-20% new barrels. Its deep ruby/plum color is followed by a beautiful nose of blackcurrant, smoked herbs, graphite, and spices. It is medium-bodied to full-bodied, with a full and structured palate, good overall balance, and a lovely finish. I already enjoy it today and see no reason why it cannot be enjoyed for the next 20 to 25 years.