Domaine Paul Jaboulet Aîné

Nestled on the mythical Hermitage hill in Tain-l’Hermitage, the Paul Jaboulet Aîné estate embodies the very essence of the great wines of the Rhône Valley. Founded in 1834 by Antoine Jaboulet, this family house has spanned centuries, cultivating an unshakeable passion for the terroir.

The estate – from tradition to responsible agriculture

After more than 170 years in the care of the Jaboulet family, the house took a new turn in 2006 with the arrival of the Frey family. It was under the direction of Caroline Frey, a passionate oenologist and winegrower, that the estate made a major transition to organic and biodynamic viticulture. These practices, certified organic since 2016, demonstrate a deep respect for the environment and the authenticity of the terroir, with a simple philosophy: “There is no great wine without great grapes.” Caroline Frey has also been recognized for her commitment, notably receiving the Insignia of Knight of the National Order of Merit in 2017.

A special technique to adapt to climate change

The year 2022 marked a turning point for Domaine Paul Jaboulet Aîné, characterized by extreme weather conditions with more than 50 days above 32°C. This heat and drought led to a historically early harvest, beginning on August 11. Despite these challenges, the 2022 vintage proved exceptional, confirming the quality of the terroir and the efficiency of the winemaker’s work.

To adapt to these changes, the team, under the leadership of Caroline Frey, is testing new methods. One of them consists of letting the vine, which is a liana, grow and intertwine, without cutting the end of its branches. This approach allows the plant to better manage its water balance, its regrowth, and the protection of the grapes thanks to the natural shade created by the foliage. However, denser foliage can also increase the vine’s water consumption.

Soil preservation

“Keeping the soil and plants as healthy as possible is our best asset in the face of climate challenges.” Caroline Fey

Healthy soil is essential to the health of the vine. At a depth of 30 cm, the soil is home to more than 80% of life on Earth. Aware of this richness, the Domaine is committed to preserving this biodiversity through agricultural practices that nourish this ecosystem.

The team is testing and observing new soil management methods over several years to ensure their effectiveness. These experiments have already improved soil structure and increased the vine’s tolerance to water stress, as it absorbs water and nutrients more effectively. Consequently, the resulting wines gain in freshness and purity, with livelier aromas. These efforts are part of a long-term approach to preserve the estate’s heritage for future generations.

Legendary vintages

The Domaine Paul Jaboulet Aîné looks after a unique heritage of plots spread across the most renowned terroirs of the Northern Rhône. From Hermitage to Côte-Rôtie, including Crozes-Hermitage and Saint-Joseph, the house’s expertise enhances each appellation.

Among the emblematic cuvées, it is impossible not to mention:

• Hermitage La Chapelle: An iconic place overlooking the Rhône, La Chapelle is the icon of the house. The “La Chapelle” wine is a blend of the best plots, often considered one of the greatest red wines in the world.

• Crozes-Hermitage Domaine de Thalabert: A historic and essential cuvée of the estate.

The estate’s wines are distinguished by their purity, freshness, and vibrant aromas, the result of precise winemaking and careful aging.

PAUL JABOULET AINE La Chapelle 1989

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Paul Jaboulet Ainé La Chapelle 1989

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Paul Jaboulet Ainé La Chapelle 1990

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Paul Jaboulet Ainé Le Chevalier de Sterimberg 2007

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