2022 Paul Jaboulet Côtes du Rhône Parallele 45 Rouge, Southern Rhone

The 2022 Côtes Du Rhône Parallèle 45 is juicy and elegant, with pretty red and black fruits and some peppery, garrigue-like notes in a charming, supple, incredibly elegant profile. Mostly Grenache with smaller amounts of Syrah, Mourvèdre, Marselan, and Carignan, it's well worth enjoying over the coming 3-5 years.

88 points jebdunnuck.com

The big news at Paul Jaboulet Aîné is the splitting of their flagship Hermitage La Chapelle and their Le Chevalier De Sterimberg into their own separate label, Domaine De La Chapelle. All the remaining releases remain under the Paul Jaboulet Aîné label in this report.

Paul Jaboulet Côtes du Rhône Parallèle 45 Rouge is a classic, approachable expression of Southern Rhône red, offering the warmth, spice and supple fruit that define the region, all at excellent value. Named after the 45th parallel north—which runs just south of Jaboulet’s cellars in Tain-l’Hermitage—this wine blends Grenache and Syrah in a style that’s generous, easy to drink, and unmistakably Rhône in character.

The grapes are sourced from vineyards across the southern part of the Rhône Valley, where the Mediterranean climate, stony soils and mistral winds contribute to ripe fruit and natural freshness. Fermentation is in stainless steel to preserve vibrancy, with a short time in concrete vats to round out the tannins and add a touch of savoury complexity.

On the nose, it shows bright red cherry, raspberry, black pepper, lavender and garrigue herbs. The palate is medium bodied and smooth, with juicy red fruit, soft spice and just enough grip to give it shape. It’s uncomplicated but well made, with a dry, clean finish and excellent balance.

Food pairing: ideal with grilled lamb chops, ratatouille, roast chicken, charcuterie or pizza with olives and herbs. Also great with lentil stew or a simple pasta with tomato and rosemary.

Cellar potential: best enjoyed young within 3 to 5 years to capture its freshness, though it can mellow slightly with short-term cellaring.