Dark ruby colour and it seems young and concentrated both visually and on the aromatics. Dark, cool blue fruits, grilled cedar and campfire smoke, cold ash, lovely character. Firm tannic architecture, could benefit from 30 minutes in a carafe or just leave it in your glass for a while. This feels to me like it is on the plateau and not going anywhere, and you might just strike it lucky with a great bottle at the right time. Gerard Jaboulet and his brother Jacques were owners and winemakers. Gerard Jaboulet and his brother Jacques owner and winemaker.

Jacques Jaboulet believes that 1996 was a better year for this firm than 1995. The renowned Hermitage La Chapelle, is a superb wine in both 1996 and 1995. The 1995 Hermitage La Chapelle is performing extremely well, although it needs 8-10 years of cellaring. It possesses a blackberry/blueberry component, lower acidity, an intense, full-bodied palate, a dense purple color, and a finish that lasts for 25-30 seconds. It is thick, rich, and promising, but it should not be consumed before 2005. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2025. Importer: Frederick Wildman, New York, NY; tel. (212) 355-0700

I quite enjoyed the nose that is evolving on this “Chapelle”: touches of woodland, saddle-leather, even a hint of black truffle. Good definition if lacking a little vigour. The palate is medium-bodied with moderate fruit concentration, quite sweet and generous in the middle with a game and leather tinged finish. Somehow, it comes across as being rustic but not without charm. Drink now-2013. Tasted October 2007.

From Kate Dugdale's cellar. Deep garnet with brick rim. Meaty and peppery Syrah rather than particularly Hermitage. Unusually sweet fruit, sour cherry. High acid and firm tannins. There's plenty of fruit but it's not quite harmonious. (JH)

As at the big Hermitage La Chapelle tasting in June 2024 , this wine's signature was oddly high acidity. Did they acidify this ripe vintage, wondered Anthony Hanson MW. Sweet initially and then really quite sour. Recognisable North Rhône Syrah but not more. (JR)