Paul Jaboulet-Aîné : La Maison Bleue 2022

Crafted from vines planted on the eastern side of the Hermitage's hill, the 2022 Hermitage La Maison Bleue evokes aromas of loamy soils, mulberries, iris and dark berries, which intermingle with floral notes upon aeration. Medium to full-bodied, layered and concentrated, it has a fleshy, dense core of fruit and velvety yet abundant tannins, finishing with a charming, youthful and long finish. Fleshier and deeper than many Hermitage wines due to clay soils without granite influence, this is an enveloping and stunning Hermitage.

In spite of its ample concentration and structure, this is an elegant and precise expression of Hermitage. Such a wide spectrum of black and red berries with grilled rosemary and smoke complexity. The ample fine-grained tannins build impressively on the finish, and they need some time to completely harmonize, but they are wrapped in enough richness to already be exciting. From vineyards on the eastern side of the hill of Hermitage. From organically grown grapes. Drink from 2027.

Cask sample. The nose is meaty, spiced, rich and gamey, bloody and ferruginous. A ripe and rounded palate with an opulent mouthfeel – firm and succulent tannins that are well integrated. The fruit is dark, meaty, gamey and spiced. A broad finish with moderate acidity and a dense, dark finish. Nicely balanced but a bit of a behemoth! (AC)

The 2022 Hermitage La Maison Bleue radiates marked intensity on its aromatic profile, mingling graphite, black cherry, blackberry, dried violet and cedar notes with a flicker of licorice. Hitting the medium- to full-bodied palate with lovely elegance, the 2022 achieves outstanding freshness. Generous yet focused, it winds down with a resonant echo on the complex finale.