M. Chapoutier : Le Pavillon 2004

A Generous and Silky Red Wine from Ermitage

The Estate

Established in 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 Maison Chapoutier 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 Pavillon 2004 from M. Chapoutier is an Ermitage wine made from a plot of about 4 hectares that owes its uniqueness to its atypical geology consisting of a thin layer of sediments resting on a granitic subsoil. The grapes produced from this vineyard of old vines, averaging 65 years old, are recognized for their high quality.

Vinification and Aging

Ensuring a low yield, these old vines are harvested manually, at the limit of overripeness. 100% destemming followed by vinification in concrete vats accompanied by one to two punch-downs per day to ensure optimal extraction. Maceration of 4 to 5 weeks. Made exclusively from a free-run wine, this parcel cuvée benefits from an aging of 18 to 20 months in oak barrels (including on average 30% new barrels). The clarification is natural.

Blend

Syrah (100%).

Characteristics and Tasting Tips for the Pavillon 2004 from M. Chapoutier

Tasting

Color
The color is deep and intense red with violet reflections.

Nose
The nose exhales smoky and tarry notes that mingle with aromas of raspberry and blackberry accompanied by touches of walnut and licorice.

Palate
Complex and powerful from the attack, the palate offers a velvety and balanced structure with notes of licorice, tobacco and cocoa that extend on a long and persistent finish.

Cellaring

This wine from the Rhône Valley can wait in the cellar for several decades to express its full aromatic palette.

Food and Wine Pairings

The Pavillon 2004 from M. Chapoutier pairs wonderfully with rib of beef, game (hare, wild boar) or well-aged goat cheeses.