M. Chapoutier : Le Pavillon 2013

A great velvety and fleshy Ermitage red wine

The estate

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

Winemaker and wine merchant, Michel Chapoutier has successfully brought this family-owned business to the very top. The wines by Maison Chapoutier are renowned by the finest connoisseurs from all around the world for their refinement and high 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 the running of this iconic house, which has over 350 hectares of vineyards in the most prestigious appellations of northern and southern Rhône Valley.

The vineyard

Le Pavillon 2013 from M. Chapoutier is an Ermitage wine made from a plot of about 4 hectares that gets its uniqueness from its atypical geology consisting 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.

Winemaking and ageing

These old vines were harvested by hand, pushing the limit to over-ripeness, to ensure a low yield. The grapes were 100% destemmed and then vinified in concrete vats with one or two punchings of the cap per day to ensure optimal extraction. Maceration for 4 to 5 weeks.

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

Blend

Syrah (100%)

Characteristics and tasting tips for Le Pavillon 2013 from M. Chapoutier

Tasting

Colour
The colour is an intense red.

Nose
Complex and intense, the nose releases scents of blackcurrant, licorice and light touches of smoke and tar.

Palate
The palate is fleshy and velvety, mingling power, balance and texture. It develops graphite, cacao and tobacco notes which draw out to a long-lasting finish.

Food and wine pairing

This Rhône Valley wine pairs perfectly with a piece of beef, stews or ripe goat’s cheese.