Jaboulet Aîné Hermitage La Chapelle 1989 1.5L

98 points Matt Walls (Decanter): “The 1989 was an exceptional vintage, slightly overshadowed by the historically great 1990. From 40- to 60-year-old vines from Les Bessards, Le Méal and Les Rocoules, this is lighter in aroma than the 1990, with dark chocolate, cigar box and bonfire smoke, slightly more perfumed than the meaty 1990, showing some lighter, more aerial spice notes. It’s medium-bodied with superfine tannins, still so vibrant, with a little blackcurrant note on the long, dry, savoury finish. Highly complex, it’s becoming lighter now but is still exceptional. Drinking Window: 2019-2024. (Jun 2019)”

96 points Robert Parker: “This fabulous, blockbuster has been totally unevolved since bottling, but at the Jaboulet tasting, it was beginning to reveal some of its formidable potential. A saturated opaque purple color is followed by aromas of cassis, minerals, and hot bricks/wood fire. Super-ripe and full-bodied, with a massive mid-section, teeth-staining extract, and mouth-searing tannin, it is a monster-sized La Chapelle. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2050. (Jun 2000)”