Paul Jaboulet-Aîné : Domaine de Thalabert Mule Blanche 2024

The refinement and richness of a Crozes-Hermitage white from old vines

The estate

Founded in 1834 by Antoine Jaboulet in Tain-l’Hermitage, the Paul Jaboulet-Aîné House is a leading reference in the Rhône Valley. Acquired by the Frey family in 2006, it is now run by Caroline Frey, an oenologist and winegrower. The estate farms 105 hectares across the Rhône’s finest terroirs. Certified organic, the house continues to uphold its high standards through exceptional wines.

The vineyard

Domaine de Thalabert, owned by Maison Paul Jaboulet-Aîné since 1834, is the oldest vineyard in the Crozes-Hermitage appellation. This cuvée comes from plots on low-lying pebble terraces over clay-limestone soils. The vines, planted between 1956 and 1974, have an average age of 60 years, ensuring low yields that serve outstanding quality. The vineyard is managed under certified organic farming. The name “Mule Blanche” pays tribute to the mules once used on these lands before mechanization, renowned for being more resilient than horses.

Vinification and aging

The grapes for Domaine de Thalabert “Mule Blanche” are hand-harvested, with strict sorting in the vineyard, in small 12 kg crates. Pressing is carried out using whole clusters. Fermentation takes place in concrete eggs and oak barrels, 5% of which are new oak. Aging of this Rhône Valley wine on fine lees continues in the same vessels, with regular bâtonnage for 9 months. No malolactic fermentation is carried out, in order to preserve the wine’s natural freshness.

Grape varieties

The 2024 Domaine de Thalabert Mule Blanche from Paul Jaboulet-Aîné is made from a blend of marsanne and roussanne.