M. Chapoutier : Les Varonniers 2013

A rich and aromatic red wine from Crozes-Ermitage

The estate

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

Vinegrower and merchant, Michel Chapoutier has managed over the vintages to lead this family business to the top. The wines of the Chapoutier House 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 American critic 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

The Varonniers 2013 from M. Chapoutier is a Crozes-Ermitage wine made from old Syrah vines, planted on granite slopes facing southwest at the end of the Hermitage hill.

Vinification and aging

Vinification in small concrete vats. Maceration for almost a month. Exclusive use of the runoff wine. The aging of 14 to 18 months is carried out exclusively in oak barrels, a certain percentage of which are new.

Blend

Syrah (100%).

Characteristics and tasting advice for the Les Varonniers 2013 cuvée from M. Chapoutier

Tasting

Color
The color is a beautiful dark garnet red.

Nose
Delicately fruity, the nose offers notes of red fruits, blackcurrant and raspberry that precede licorice aromas.

Palate
Dense and powerful, the palate seduces with its beautiful tannic structure and its persistent finish, with jam and vanilla flavors.

Food and wine pairings

This Rhône Valley wine pairs wonderfully with small game (wild boar terrine, hare stew) or cheeses (farmhouse Saint Nectaire).