At a glance

Producer

Domaine Paul Jaboulet Aîné

Region

Crozes-Hermitage, Rhône Valley, France

Grape variety

Syrah

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$30-$45

Tasting profile

Red and black fruits (black cherry, blackberry), pepper, floral violet notes, subtle earth and smoked meat nuances

Evolution: Will gain complexity with tertiary notes such as leather, truffle, and mineral nuances over the next 5-7 years

At peak: Balanced elegance with seamless integration of fruit, spice and fine-grained tannins, showcasing typical northern Rhône terroir

Structure

Acidity

Moderate to high, characteristic of northern Rhône Syrah

Tannins

Firm but well-integrated

Alcohol

13.5%-14%

Aging potential

10-15 years from vintage, can extend up to 16 years depending on storage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2026 to 2044

Optimal window

2023 to 2047

Current status

Approaching optimal drinking window

Current condition

Youthful with developing complexity

The wine is from a well-regarded vintage for Crozes-Hermitage and made by a historic producer. Syrah from Crozes-Hermitage typically evolves well over a decade plus, gaining complexity and softening tannins during this window. The 2019 vintage’s ripeness and structure support a drinking window beginning roughly 4 years post-vintage, peaking in the next 7-10 years.

Food pairing

Grilled lamb, beef stew, charcuterie, roasted game birds, mushroom dishes, hard cheeses like aged Comté or Gruyère

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (30-60 minutes) — To allow primary tannins and aromas to open up and to soften youthfulness

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Use of cover crops, limited chemical treatments, water conservation measures, and eco-friendly packaging initiatives

Domaine Paul Jaboulet Aîné emphasizes sustainable viticulture without formal certification. Their practices minimize environmental impact through reduced chemical inputs, focus on soil health, and improvements in packaging to lower waste. While carbon footprint from international shipping exists, efficient production methods and a commitment to sustainability raise their score above average.