Paul Jaboulet-Aîné : Domaine de Thalabert 2021

Lots of black and green pepper on the nose, but also plenty of blackberry fruit. Impressive concentration and full, supple tannins that give this considerable power at the long, velvety and earthy finish. Excellent aging potential, and that's rare in this vintage. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.

The 2021 Crozes-Hermitage Domaine de Thalabert uses grapes from vines up to 60 years old. It offers slightly dusty red fruits paired with reductive characteristics. Although well balanced and quite refreshing, the fairly low flavor concentration and abrupt finish prevent this 2021 from meriting a higher score.

The 2021 Crozes-Hermitage Domaine De Thalabert is pretty and elegant, with medium-bodied aromas and flavors of ripe black cherries, truffly earth, and peppery herbs. It's nicely balanced, has juicy, integrated acidity, and outstanding length. It's an undeniable success in the vintage.

Tasted just before bottling. A rounded attack, a velvety, coating texture, aromas of dark fruits, but a slightly firm finish with some bitterness in a vintage that was challenging.

Taut and racy, in line with the leaner vintage, marked by smoked incense and meat notes layered with crunchy red currant and lavender. Reveals charred apple wood accents that add roundness to the palate, while generous salty mineral and graphite elements line the finish. Drink now through 2028.

Class meets character in this expressive Crozes-Hermitage, capturing both the brightness and elegance of the vintage. Juicy red and black fruit mingle with violet and cracked pepper, tempered by hints of graphite and savoury spice. Supple, ripe tannins and the appellation’s hallmark crisp acidity bring poise and length. Drinking beautifully now, yet sure to gain further complexity with time. Vegan.