Paul Jaboulet Aîné

Classification

Paul Jaboulet Aîné stands among the most historic and influential producers of the Rhône Valley, revered for shaping the global reputation of appellations such as Hermitage, Crozes-Hermitage, and Cornas. Founded in the early 19th century, the estate is synonymous with the refinement and longevity of Syrah from the northern Rhône, anchored by its iconic cuvée, La Chapelle.

Highlights

• Heritage of Excellence: Established in 1834 in Tain-l’Hermitage by Antoine Jaboulet and continued by successive generations committed to Rhône tradition.
• Iconic Wine: Hermitage La Chapelle has achieved legendary status, including multiple 100-point vintages and recognition as one of the world’s great Syrahs.
• Resurgence under New Stewardship: Since 2006, the Frey family—also proprietors of Château La Lagune in Bordeaux—has revitalized the estate through organic and biodynamic practices.
• Regional Mastery: Extensive holdings across the northern and southern Rhône allow for terroir-specific expressions while maintaining a consistent house style of precision and balance.

Provenance & Masters Behind the Bottle

Founded in 1834 by Antoine Jaboulet and later managed by the Jaboulet family for over 170 years, the estate has long been central to the narrative of fine Rhône wine. In 2006, winemaker Caroline Frey assumed control, infusing the domaine with modern technical precision and a strong sustainability ethos. Her leadership has positioned Paul Jaboulet Aîné at the intersection of heritage and innovation, merging classic Rhône craftsmanship with contemporary viticultural excellence.

Vineyard & Craftsmanship

The heart of the estate lies on the granite slopes of the Hermitage hill, where old-vine Syrah forms the foundation of its flagship wines. Beyond Hermitage, the domaine farms parcels throughout Crozes-Hermitage, Cornas, Saint-Joseph, and Côtes du Rhône. Each vineyard is cultivated with strict attention to soil vitality and biodiversity, reflecting the Frey family’s transition toward organic and biodynamic certification. In the cellar, minimal intervention, gravity flow, and carefully selected oak aging preserve the purity and longevity that have defined Jaboulet wines for generations.

Aging & Investment Value

Paul Jaboulet Aîné’s top cuvées, especially Hermitage La Chapelle, are recognized as benchmark investment wines, prized for their proven track record of evolution and rarity. The combination of historic pedigree, limited production, and critical acclaim ensures enduring demand among collectors worldwide. As the estate continues to evolve under Caroline Frey’s stewardship, Jaboulet remains a cornerstone of Rhône collectibility and a model of French fine-wine craftsmanship.