The 1988 La Chapelle continues to evolve slowly yet reassuringly. I have several friends who argue that the 1988 will ultimately turn out better than the 1989! I cannot see the same astonishing depth and flavor dimension in the 1988, but there is no question that it is a superb La Chapelle. It will need more time than the 1989 to reach full maturity. Powerful and extremely rich, it is a classic expression of the Syrah grape. I should note again that Jaboulet, after experimenting with filtration in the early eighties, decided to bottle his top cuvees without any fining or filtration. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2025. Last tasted 11/96.

Now, I really have a soft spot for this La Chapelle and it is drinking perfectly now. A very seductive nose instantly has you hooked with blackberry leaf, undergrowth, thyme, dried fruits and a touch of boot polish. Great definition and very natural. The palate just has a beautiful balance with vibrant, natural acidity and slightly grainy tannins. The finish is so refined with hints of white pepper and briary. Very good length – this is just a lovely Hermitage that dances beautifully on the palate. Drink now-2018. Tasted June 2008.

This was the first vintage in the vertical tasting of La Chapelle that is beginning to reveal considerable secondary nuances and color development. Opaque purple/garnet with a touch of amber at the edge, this sexy, rich effort is more pleasurable aromatically than on the palate. However, it possesses multiple dimensions as well as abundant aromas of cedar, damp forest, spice box, and Asian spices. The soaring bouquet suggested the wine was more mature in flavor than it turned out to be. The wine is dense, with a firm, noticeably tannic edge, full body, and concentrated, powerful flavors. It is a classy, understated La Chapelle that requires another 5-6 years of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2025.

From The Wine Society's cellar. Deep garnet with brick rim. Very rich on the nose. Rich in fruit but meaty, too. Fragrant with undergrowth. Juicy, fresh and so full of life for a wine of this age. Bright and still big and chewy. Lots of pleasure in a such a mature wine. (JH)