Domaine de la Chapelle : La Chapelle Paul Jaboulet-Aîné 2014

A blend of Le Méal (structure) and Les Bessards (flesh), the dark granitic stony influence is striking with smoky, dark stony minerals and peppery nuances. The fruit is in the blackberry, raspberry and red plum spectrum. The palate has an impressive fluid core of supple dark and red plum fruits with an undercarriage of smooth, muscular tannins. Nice balance. Drink from 2020 and beyond.

The 2014 Hermitage La Chapelle shows the more charming, supple style of the vintage and, while young, is certainly drinking nicely. Giving up pretty redcurrant and black raspberry fruits as well as chalky minerals, peppery herbs, spice, and hints of charred meat, it hits the palate with medium-bodied richness, a supple, elegant texture, fine tannins, and a great finish. Despite the charming style in its fruit, it has classic Hermitage focus, minerality, and structure and is a wine that will evolve gracefully on its balance for another two decades. It should hit full maturity in another 4-5 years or so.

Beautiful finesse on the palate; the southern character of Méal comes through in the garrigue notes, with a saline touch typical of Les Bessards. It delivers structure and depth that the Petite Chapelle lacks in this vintage; already indulgent, but it will age well.

While not at the level of the 2015, 2010 or 2009, the 2014 Hermitage La Chapelle is certainly a success and sports a deep ruby color as well as classic, medium- to full-bodied notes of smoked meats, crushed violets, spice, black raspberries and currants. Elegant, seamless, finesse-driven and beautifully layered, with impeccable tannin quality, it will keep for two decades.