2020 Cornas, Reynard, Domaine Paul Jaboulet Aîné, Rhône
- James Lawther MW
- 16.5/20
- Matt Walls
- 93/100
- James Suckling
- 93/100
The story begins with Antoine Jaboulet, who planted vines on the granite hillsides of Tain-l’Hermitage nearly two centuries ago. His vision laid the foundation for a domaine that would grow to encompass some of the Rhône’s most revered appellations, including Hermitage, Crozes-Hermitage, Cornas and Saint-Joseph. The estate’s flagship wine, Hermitage La Chapelle, first produced in 1919, remains one of France’s most celebrated cuvées – a benchmark for Syrah worldwide. Through generations, Jaboulet earned its reputation as a guardian of Rhône tradition, weathering wars, market shifts and changing tastes, always anchored by its exceptional terroirs.
When the Frey family acquired Jaboulet in 2006, Caroline Frey took charge of winemaking with a clear mission: restore the estate’s greatness while embracing environmental responsibility. She initiated a complete conversion to organic farming, achieving certification in 2016, and introduced biodynamic practices across Hermitage vineyards. Today, every plot is managed using regenerative viticulture, which enhances soil health and biodiversity. In the cellar, traditional methods meet modern precision: gravity-fed systems, meticulous sorting and tailored oak ageing ensure purity and balance in every wine. This philosophy has returned Jaboulet to the top tier of Rhône producers.