Crozes-Hermitage Les Jalets 2016
Crozes-Hermitage Les Jalets 2016, Since the early 19th Century, Crozes Hermitage “Les Jalets” comes from 6 ha of vineyard, located at “Les Jalets”, with additional purchased grapes. Its name comes from the word “jalets” which is the old French word for the pebbles left by alpine glaciers, as can be found at Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Paul Jaboulet Ainé has been synonymous with quality wine in the Rhône Valley. Jaboulet’s Hermitages are the stuff of legend. The name Les Jalets comes from the soil nature of the vineyards, located in the plain of Les Chassis, stemming from the word jalets, is the Old French word for the pebbles left by alpine glaciers, as famously found at Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Average vine age is around 25 years.
We love a nice Crozes Hermitage. They show all the great flavours and personality from the Syrah, while remaining medium bodied and easy to drink. This one boasts delicious aromas of red berries with sweet spices on the finish. Subtle, elegant and well balanced, it is a very safe bet from a prestigious producer.
Paul Jaboulet Aîné has been a part of the Rhône Valley wine industry for almost two centuries, beginning with a small plot of land on the hills of Hermitage, before expanding throughout the region. Today, it encompasses more than 100 hectares (250 acres) of vineyards making wines from the northern and southern Rhône, including Hermitage, Crozes-Hermitage, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Condrieu and Cornas.
In 1834, Antonie Jaboulet began working the hills of Hermitage, growing and cultivating the vines that would lay the framework for future generations. On his death, the estate was passed to his sons Henri and Paul, the latter eventually giving his name to wines and the company. The maison was passed through the Jaboulet family until the purchase by the Frey family in 2006. The Paul Jaboulet Hermitage La Chapelle is the estate’s flagship wine and is one of the most sought-after wines from the Rhône, reaching high prices at auction. It is named for a 13th Century church built atop Hermitage (see image), which became the property of the company in 1919.