1991 Hermitage La Chapelle is a benchmark vintage from Paul Jaboulet Aîné, now fully mature yet remarkably vibrant. It shows layered complexity—black olive, truffle, dried meat, and forest floor—wrapped in refined tannins and lifted by lively acidity. A graceful expression of aged Syrah from some of Hermitage’s finest lieux-dits.

Decanter | D 97
Published: Apr 24, 2021
Drink: 2021-2040

There's a little rust to the ruby colour now. It has fullness and generosity still on the palate, not to mention fruit and tannin, even after 30 years. It's taken on black olive truffle, sweet turned earth and worked leather at this stage. The acidity is strong, and it still has a great sense of vitality and salinity. Wonderfully long finish. From lieux-dits Les Roucoules, Le Méal, Les Greffieux, Les Bessards and Varogne.
Closure: Cork
Body: Full
Oak: Oaked
Grapes: 100% Syrah / Shiraz

Jamessuckling.com | JS 96
Published: Dec 14, 2014

Who says that 1991 was only outstanding for Côte-Rôtie? All about finesse and beauty. Full body with super-fine tannins and a superb length and finesse. The finish goes on for minutes with sous bois, Cameroon black pepper cloves and dried meat. Florals. Really subtle and intense.

The Wine Advocate | RP 91
Published: Sep 14, 2015
Drink: 2015-2020

Showing a touch of oxidation, but still thoroughly enjoyable, full-bodied and textured, the 1991 Hermitage la Chapelle has lots of olive and darker fruits, as well as that mature la Chapelle bouquet of chocolate, soy and roasted meats. Big, fleshy and textured on the palate, I love it for its richness and it still has plenty of sweet tannin. I wouldn't push the aging curve here and see no reason to delay gratification, especially with the subtle kiss of oxidation. Nevertheless, this outstanding Hermitage offers plenty of character.

Jaboulet.com

Founded in 1834 on the Hermitage hill in Tain l'Hermitage, the Paul Jaboulet Aîné estate oversees an exceptional heritage, bringing together the most renowned terroirs of the northern Rhône Valley. 105 hectares of vines stretching from Cornas to Côte-Rôtie. Under the leadership of Caroline Frey, precise winemaking, combined with meticulous care of our vines, allows us to produce tailor-made vintages that have been certified organic since 2016.