Paul Jaboulet-Aîné : Domaine de Thalabert 2022

Wafting from the glass with a lively, elegant bouquet of dark berries, spices, licorice and herbs, the 2022 Crozes-Hermitage Domaine de Thalabert possesses a moderately weighted, satiny and ample palate with a delicately juicy core of fruit, despite a slightly introverted character and an austere finish. Fermented 30% in wooden tronconic tanks, the rest in foudres, and matured in barrels, 15% new, this is a real classic.

Violet-tinged blackberry on the nose. Silky, with fine tannins, fresh fruit, vibrancy and brightness to the depth. Organic, like all the domaine wines, this was harvested in several passes; young vines first, then the older vines up to four days later – the 85-year-old vines are some of the oldest in the appellation.

This proves that Crozes-Hermitage can be a truly great wine. A wealth of black fruit, smoke, black pepper and raw meat aromas. At once bold, structured and elegantly balanced on the medium- to full-bodied palate, where the interplay of fleshiness and fine tannins is stunning. Very long, stony finish with notes of licorice and blackberries. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.

Ripe black fruit, licorice and cedar tones introduce the refined 2022 Crozes-Hermitage Domaine de Thalabert. Medium-bodied, round and elegant, it bundles lively freshness with gentle resonance on the savory finish. Although the 2022 comes with secure aging potential, it can also be approached right after release.