94 points Vinous
Shimmering ruby. Expressive, spice-accented red and dark berry aromas are complemented by suggestions of olive, espresso and candied flowers. Juicy and energetic on the palate, offering gently sweet cherry and cassis flavors that deepen through the back half. Finishes very long, spicy and smooth, with even tannins lending final grip. (JR) (12/2022)
93 points James Suckling
A charismatic Crozes-Hermitage with tons of black-plum fruit, as well as hot-asphalt and cocoa-powder notes. This is remarkably open for its young age, in spite of the ample structure. Has a bold and tightly knit tannin structure, but should be drinkable from release, thanks to the forthright fruit that is very present at the long, moderately dry finish. From biodynamically grown grapes. (3/2022)
92 points Jeb Dunnuck
A terrific Crozes in the vintage, the 2020 Crozes Hermitage Domaine De Thalabert comes from a single vineyard in the Chassis region and is brought up in a mix of barrel and tank. It’s always a singular wine and offers a smoky, meaty, tapenade, and truffle-driven profile as well as impressive cassis and darker fruit. Medium to full-bodied, pure, and layered on the palate, this is one classy Crozes that will have 15 years of longevity.
Winemaker Notes:
In the glass, this wine displays a deep ruby color, enticing the senses with its rich and alluring hue. With an alcohol content of 14.0%, it promises a delightful and balanced experience on the palate.The nose is immediately enveloped in a symphony of aromas, as if stepping into a fragrant garden. Black and blue fruits take center stage, offering a luscious bouquet that is complemented by notes of black olive, smoke, and a hint of ground pepper. Each inhalation reveals a new layer of complexity, enticing you to explore further.
About Paul Jaboulet Aine:
This is one of France’s finest estates, the crown jewel of the Rhône Valley. Oenologist and proprietor Caroline Frey, alongside Winemaking Director Jacques Desvernois, are producing the authentic standard for quality Syrah across the Northern Rhône. In 1834, a full 100 years before the introduction of the A.O.C. system, Antoine Jaboulet began to transform a sleepy region into one of the most important quality winegrowing terroirs in the world. Since that time, Paul Jaboulet Aîné has become the benchmark in the Northern Rhône. Domaine de Thalabert is the first vineyard owned by Paul Jaboulet, purchased in 1834. Thalabert also holds the distinction as the oldest vineyard of the entire appellation. Considered the benchmark for Crozes-Hermitages with the ability to age for decades, Jaboulet's is made from 60-80 year old vines which are biodynamically farmed. The vines are grown on pebbly terraces that are glacial in origin, with the bedrock close to the topsoil. These small, round pebbles store heat during the day and release it at night, providing optimum and regular maturity.
