2021, Domaine de la Chapelle, HERMITAGE 'La Chapelle'

100% Syrah.

First time on the Place for this iconic wine from Caroline Frey, with a long and illustrious history in Hermitage. Glorious even in a challenging vintage, with the oh so slow release of cut herbs, sour cherry and raspberry flavours, white pepper spice, fragrant peony and iris flowers, both fragrant and gentle, all bound up with fine tannins. Leaning into the gentle pleasures of the vintage. New label also. 95 Jane Anson.

Incredibly deep and complex nose for the 2021 vintage with masses of forest berry, liquorice and autumn mushroom aromas, with an enormous tannin structure that's very refined. The classic power of Hermitage comes through at the extremely long finish. Although the tannins are anything but aggressive, the aromas will need considerable time to fully unfurl. From parcels on the western side of the Hermitage hill with predominantly granite soils, the largest parcel being in Le Meal. From organically grown grapes. Drinkable now, but best from 2026. 96 James Suckling.

The 2021 Hermitage La Chapelle, 100% Syrah, is medium to deep garnet-purple in colour. It needs a little coaxing to bring out beautifully perfumed notes of black cherries, violets, and black raspberries, leading to wafts of charcoal, cracked black pepper, and wild sage with a hint of iron ore. The medium-bodied palate is elegantly crafted and refreshing, with very soft tannins and a long aniseed-laced finish. This was the year the name was changed from Jaboulet's La Chapelle to Domaine de La Chapelle, still owned by the Frey family. Drink 2025-2045. 95 Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW