M. Chapoutier : L'Ermite 2021

A delicate and aromatic grand red wine from Ermitage

The estate

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 2021 from M. Chapoutier is an 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, sandy, shallow soils, derived from Tournon granite. Some old vines aged 120 years are planted on very poor granite soils. In a constant search for excellence, a significant part of the vines is pre-phylloxera or replaced by layering (therefore ungrafted).

The vintage 

2021 is a vintage whose contrasting conditions between the northern and southern Rhône Valley have revealed the nuances and richness of each of these great terroirs. This vintage seduces with its finesse and its aromatic palette harmoniously blending complexity and elegance.

Blend

Syrah (100%). 

Characteristics and tasting advice for L’Ermite 2021 from M. Chapoutier

Tasting

Color
The color is very dark garnet, almost black.

Nose
Discreet, the nose reveals on aeration a beautiful concentration. Fragrances of black fruits, smoky notes and spices harmoniously blend with notes of cedar and gunpowder.

Palate
Dense and deep, the palate seduces with its fine tannins and its finish where peppery (finely grilled Sichuan pepper) and fruity (black fruit coulis) aromas combine.

Food and wine pairings

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