Paul Jaboulet-Aîné : Le Grand Pompée 2024

The vibrancy and balance of a Saint-Joseph wine

The estate

Founded in 1834 by Antoine Jaboulet in Tain-l’Hermitage, the Paul Jaboulet-Aîné House has embodied the expertise of the Rhône Valley for nearly two centuries. Acquired by the Frey family in 2006, it is now led by Caroline Frey, a renowned oenologist and winemaker. The estate farms around 125 hectares, including 25 in Hermitage, and vinifies more than thirteen Rhône appellations. Certified organic since 2016 and transitioning to biodynamics, it remains famous for Hermitage La Chapelle, a Syrah icon.

The vineyard

The vines for this white Saint-Joseph thrive on light schist and gneiss soils resting on a granitic bedrock. Planted on steep slopes with southern and south-eastern exposures, they benefit from ideal conditions for ripening white grape varieties. Aged from 10 to 30 years, they are managed with a controlled yield of 35 hl/ha, ensuring concentration and quality.

Vinification and ageing

The grapes for Le Grand Pompée are harvested by hand, then pressed as whole clusters. Fermentation, carried out at low temperature, takes place in a combination of vessels including barrels, stainless-steel tanks and concrete eggs. The ageing of this Rhône Valley wine lasts 8 months, split between concrete eggs, French oak barrels and stainless-steel tanks, adding complexity and texture.

Grape varieties

Le Grand Pompée 2024 from Paul Jaboulet-Aîné is a blend of Marsanne and Roussanne.