M. Chapoutier : L'Ermite 2011

A rich and spicy Ermitage red wine signed M. Chapoutier

The property

Established since 1808 in Tain-L’Hermitage, the M. Chapoutier House today embodies the elite of the greatest names in the Rhône Valley.

Vinegrower and merchant, Michel Chapoutier has managed over the vintages to lead this family business to the top. Maison Chapoutier's wines are recognized for their refinement and high quality by the finest connoisseurs beyond borders. A man of many hats, Michel Chapoutier holds the world record for 100/100 scores awarded by the American Robert Parker. Mathilde, Michel Chapoutier's daughter, has taken up the torch of this iconic house, overseeing a vineyard of over 350 hectares across the most prestigious appellations of the northern and southern Rhône Valley.

The vineyard

L’Ermite 2011 from M. Chapoutier is an exceptional Ermitage wine from a vineyard certified in biodynamics since 1991. Located at the top of the Hermitage hill, around the chapel at the place called l’Ermite, this great Rhône Valley terroir is composed of leached brown soils, sandy, shallow, derived from Tournon granite. Some old vines aged 120 years are planted on very poor granite terroirs. In a constant search for excellence, a significant part of the vines is pre-phylloxera or replaced by layering (therefore ungrafted).

Vinification and aging

Late manual harvest to achieve optimal phenolic maturity. 100% destemming. Vinification in concrete vat. Maceration of 4 to 6 weeks to develop the silky touch of the tannins. Exclusive use of free-run wine in the making of this wine. Aging is carried out in barrels (20% new barrels, 20% in one-wine barrels, 30% two-wine barrels) and the balance in concrete vats.

Blend

Syrah (100%)

Characteristics and tasting advice for L’Ermite 2011 from M. Chapoutier

Tasting

Color
The color is of an intense dark garnet.

Nose
The aromatic bouquet exudes fragrances of candied red fruits and raspberry cream combined with notes of spices.

Palate
Endowed with great finesse, the palate charms with the power of the tannins which remain velvety nonetheless. Pure and authentic expression of its granitic terroir, it reveals notes of smoke and pepper characteristic of the syrah.

Food and wine pairings

This Rhône Valley wine pairs perfectly with red meats (rib of beef) or game (roast deer, wild boar stew).