Vintage Character 2017 Paul Jaboulet Aîné Côte-Rôtie "Les Jumelles" is a Syrah from the Côte-Rôtie AOC in France’s Northern Rhône, a cuvée that reflects the appellation’s classic marriage of fragrance and structure. The 2017 vintage was warm and dry, yielding small, healthy berries and a style of notable concentration, so this stands as a strong vintage with ripe fruit wrapped around firm Rhône definition. Its character is shaped by fruit drawn from both Côte Blonde and Côte Brune, where steep granitic and schist-influenced slopes give Syrah its hallmark lift, savory spice, and mineral tension.
Tasting Profile & Food Pairing Wine Advocate awarded this vintage 91 points, and the wine shows why: the nose opens with blackberry, cassis, violet, cracked pepper, and a hint of smoked meat, then broadens into olive, licorice, and cedar. On the palate it is medium- to full-bodied, layered and energetic, with dark berry fruit, fine-grained tannins, fresh acidity, and a long, peppery finish that stays floral rather than heavy. Pair it with herb-crusted lamb rack, duck breast with cherry reduction, or grilled pork collar.
Winery Background Founded in 1834, Paul Jaboulet Aîné is one of the Rhône’s historic names, later revitalized under the Frey family, whose stewardship has emphasized precision viticulture and a return to the estate’s traditional standing. Under Caroline Frey, the house has championed organic and biodynamic farming across key holdings, with careful fruit selection and a transparent approach to site expression. For Les Jumelles, the aim is not excess but classical Côte-Rôtie balance: meticulous cellar work, measured oak influence, and a style that captures both the perfume and savory depth that make the appellation so admired.