Rhône Valley · 2017

Crozes-Hermitage "Domaine de Thalabert", Paul Jaboulet Aîné 2017

Crozes-Hermitage

Price: $65.80
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Critics' score

★★★★★ ★★★★★

Jeb Dunnuck · 96/100 | James Suckling · 92/100

Crozes-Hermitage Domaine de Thalabert 2017 by Paul Jaboulet Aîné is a distinguished red wine from the Northern Rhône Valley, France. Crafted from 100% Syrah grapes sourced from the oldest vineyard in the Crozes-Hermitage appellation, which joined the Paul Jaboulet Aîné estate in 1834. This wine displays a deep ruby colour and exhibits aromas of black fruits, liquorice, and black pepper. The palate reveals a medium to full-bodied structure with ripe tannins, flavours of plums, cassis, and dark berries, leading to a balanced finish. Aged 12 months in oak barrels. Best served at 15-17°C

The wine

Tasting notes Bouquet of black fruits, iodine and peppery herbs

Appellation
Crozes-Hermitage
Vintage
2017
Grape
Syrah
Colour
Red
Style
Still
Alcohol
14.5%
Volume
75cl

Critic scores Jeb Dunnuck: 96/100James Suckling: 92/100

Pairs with Game & venisonPoultryRed meat

Crozes-Hermitage Domaine de Thalabert 2017 represents the historic legacy of Maison Paul Jaboulet Aîné, one of the most respected wine houses in the Northern Rhône Valley. The Domaine de Thalabert vineyard is the oldest single vineyard in the Crozes-Hermitage appellation and was acquired by Paul Jaboulet Aîné in 1834, becoming a flagship property for the estate.

The vineyard is situated on south-facing slopes composed of rolled pebbles and clay soils, an ideal terroir for the Syrah grape variety. The 2017 vintage is produced from 100% Syrah, hand-harvested and vinified with careful attention to preserve the varietal character and terroir expression. Following destemming and crushing, the wine undergoes alcoholic fermentation in temperature-controlled tanks, followed by malolactic fermentation. The cuvaison (maceration period) lasts 3-4 weeks to extract optimal colour, tannins, and flavour compounds. The wine is then aged for 12 months in oak barrels, with approximately 20% new oak, which adds subtle complexity while preserving the freshness and elegance of the fruit.

In the glass, the 2017 Domaine de Thalabert displays a deep ruby colour with purple reflections. The nose is expressive and complex, revealing aromas of black fruits including blackberries, plums, and cassis, complemented by notes of liquorice, black pepper, and subtle spice characteristic of Northern Rhône Syrah. On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied with a balanced structure. Flavours of dark berries, chocolate, and peppery spice are supported by ripe, well-integrated tannins that provide a velvety texture. The finish is crisp and slightly mineral, with lingering notes of liquorice and dark fruit.

This wine pairs excellently with grilled or roasted red meats such as lamb, beef, and duck, as well as game dishes, hearty stews, and mature cheeses. For optimal enjoyment, serve at 15-17°C (young wines at the cooler end of this range, more mature bottles slightly warmer). The wine can be decanted for 30-60 minutes before serving to allow the aromas to fully develop. The 2017 vintage has excellent ageing potential and will continue to evolve in the bottle for 10-15 years under proper cellaring conditions.

Technical Details:

  • Region: Crozes-Hermitage, Northern Rhône Valley, France
  • Appellation: AOC Crozes-Hermitage
  • Grape Variety: 100% Syrah
  • Vineyard: Domaine de Thalabert (acquired 1834)
  • Soil Type: Rolled pebbles and clay
  • Vinification: Temperature-controlled fermentation, 3-4 weeks maceration
  • Ageing: 12 months in oak barrels (20% new oak)
  • Alcohol by Volume: Approximately 13-14%
  • Serving Temperature: 15-17°C
  • Ageing Potential: 10-15 years from vintage
  • Vintage: 2017

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