HERMITAGE, LA CHAPELLE 1978 PAUL JABOULET AINE |

Hermitage, La Chapelle 1978 Paul Jaboulet Aîné Labels 7 soiled, 5 soiled, loose and partially torn and missing, neck slips soiled, 2 torn, slightly worn capsules, corks 3 slightly raised and 7 slightly sunken, very good levels, color and clarityIn 2016, this retains all its splendour, dimension and sheer, juicy excitement. The great structure is still there, of course, but in the background, with the liquorice, tobacco and cocoa dominating. A very complete experience, ultra satisfying and balancing power and succulence as brilliantly as ever. It is mature Syrah-gamey too, an incredible autumn/winter wine (or an English summer wine, which is when I last drank it!). Serena Sutcliffe, MW WA 10012 bts (owc)Estimates are per lot