M. Chapoutier : Le Pavillon 2000

The smoothness and finesse of an Ermitage wine

The producer

Established in Tain-L'Hermitage since 1808, the Maison M. Chapoutier embodies the elite of the finest names in Rhône Valley wines today.

Over the years, winemaker and wine merchant, Michel Chapoutier has succeeded in elevating this family business to the top. Maison Chapoutier’s wines are recognised well beyond the borders by the finest connoisseurs for their refinement and their great quality. A man of many talents, Michel Chapoutier holds the world record for 100/100 scores awarded by the American critic, Robert Parker. Mathilde, Michel Chapoutier's daughter, has taken over this iconic house, which has over 350 hectares of vineyards in the most prestigious appellations of the northern and southern parts of the Rhône Valley.

The vineyard

This Ermitage Le Pavillon by M. Chapoutier is made from a parcel of about 4 hectares which is distinctive due to its atypical geology composed of a thin layer of sediments resting on a granitic subsoil. The grapes produced from this vineyard of old vines, 65 years old on average, are renowned for their high quality.

The vinification and ageing

These old vines are harvested by hand, on the verge of overripeness, to ensure a low yield. The grapes are 100% destemmed, then vinified in concrete tanks and undergo punching of the cap once or twice a day to ensure an optimal extraction. Maceration for 4 to 5 weeks.

Made exclusively from free-run wine, this plot-based cuvée is aged for 18 to 20 months in oak barrels (of which an average of 30% are new). Clarification is natural.

The blend

Mr Chapoutier's Pavillon 2000 is a 100% Syrah.

The tasting

This wine has a purple colour with garnet tints and expresses seductive silky tannins and great delicacy.

Storage

M. Chapoutier's Pavillon 2000 can be kept in the cellar for several decades in order to express its full aromatic range.