1999 Hermitage La Chapelle
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Tasting notes
A ton of Syrah signature in its floral character, with welcoming campfire smoke on the opening, along with sandalwood, lavender, star anis, red liquorice. Drawn out, enjoyable, fully in its drinking window. Gerard Jaboulet and his brother Jacques owner and winemaker, ageing split between 228l Burgundy barrels and old-fashioned resin vats.
Critic scores
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Robert Parker
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
From The Wine Society's cellar. The first bottle was suffering from mild to moderate TCA – more obvious on the palate than on the nose. But the second bottle, opened at lunch after the tasting, was much better. Rich, chewy and smooth. With spice and sweet, black-fruit flavours, the tannins starting to become leathery but not yet resolved. (JH)
While a consistently disappointing wine, the 1999 Hermitage La Chapelle still offers charm and is enjoyable. Fully mature and evolved, with attractive red and black currant fruits as well as leafy, herbal, and meaty notes, it's medium-bodied, has a supple, rounded texture, and a good finish. It's a far cry from what this wine should be in a vintage such as this and should be drunk up, as it's certainly not going to get better.