Domaines Paul Jaboulet Aîné - Saint-Joseph La Croix des Vignes 2013

Bettane & Desseauve

About wine:

Great finesse and complexity, with a spicy style that reveals the granite origins of the vines, and better grape ripeness than on the estate's Cornas wines.

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:

Another exceptional wine from this estate that shines with purity and elegance is the 2013 St Joseph Domaine de Croix de Vignes, which comes from 1.5 hectares of vines located just outside Tournon and Mauves. Aged in 20% new French oak, it displays classic notes of black fruit, olive, licorice, smoky earth, and a distinct minerality. Medium-bodied, elegant, and consistent with fine tannins, it is already accessible in its youth but will have a bright future.

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.

Vinous

About wine:

Bright purple. Vibrant, mineral aromas of black and blue fruit jam, Indian spices, and olives, with a hint of licorice. Concentrated flavors of blackberry and candied cherry, candied violet, and peppery spices are clear, full-bodied, and powerful. Floral notes enliven the finish, which lingers with excellent tenacity and just a hint of fine tannins.

James Suckling

Jeb Dunnuck