1991 Paul Jaboulet "La Chapelle" Hermitage (Library Release)

After a hot summer followed by rain at harvest, this "miracle" vintage produced many gorgeous northern Rhône Syrahs. Balanced, racy, elegant, fresh and sweet-tasting, with smooth tannins. Aromas of leather, roasted nuts, plum and wood smoke bring a complexity that seduces. Medium-bodied and in the lineage of '96. (PM)

The 1991 Hermitage La Chapelle is now fully mature and a classy, elegant La Chapelle with lots to love, although it's not getting any better and has been in its peak drinking window for over 10-15 years now. Revealing a healthy dark plum hue with solid bricking at the rim, it has a great nose of ripe black fruits, cured meats, baking spices, subtle soy, game, and hints of chocolate. Just classic La Chapelle aromatically, it hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, sweet tannin, a plush, soft texture, and outstanding length. From a year that saw a great growing season that was capped by bad weather at harvest, this justifiably lives in the shadow of the 1990 but is nevertheless a gorgeous wine. this beauty will continue drinking nicely for another 8-10 years, although as I said, there's no need to delay gratification and if you have them, find something to celebrate and enjoy.