Hermitage La Chapelle, Domaine Paul Jaboulet Aine 2005

The best bottle I've ever had, the 2005 Hermitage la Chapelle showed much more density and concentration than I recall. Peppery herbs, currants, dried blood and licorice flow beautifully to a medium to full-bodied wine that has lots of tannin, but solid mid-palate depth as well. It has a touch of the savory rusticity found in the 2006, but was still impressive on this occasion. It's worth noting that both the 2004 and 2005 were blended by Caroline Frey.

This wine is outstanding, dark ruby/purple-colored with notes of creme de cassis, tobacco leaf, and some melted licorice and gamey animal notes. It is medium to full-bodied, has high tannin, moderate acidity, and admirable purity and depth. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2027.

Inky purple. Spicy dark berry and violet aromas build and expand with air, picking up suave mineral and sassafras character. Fleshy dark berry preserve flavors are complemented by zesty graphite and succulent herbs, finishing with superb depth and sweetness. Great material here, and I'll bet that this will please drinkers not long after its release, unlike most wines from this vintage.

CS Sweet like black cherry pastry laced with cinnamon and nutmeg. Fruit like deep crimson velvet and texture to match. Softness disguises a terrific weight and density of fruit. Sweet peppery finish.