M. Chapoutier : Les Arènes 2018

An intense and aromatic red wine from Cornas

The estate

Established since 1808 in Tain-L’Hermitage, the M. Chapoutier House embodies today 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

Les Arènes by M. Chapoutier is a Cornas wine from a vineyard partly planted on decomposing granite, locally called "gore", as well as on clay-limestone alluvial soils.

Vinification and aging

After manual harvesting, the grapes are carefully destemmed. The fermentation lasting 10 days is followed by a maceration of about 3 weeks. The aging is carried out 80% in oak barrels (100% French) and 20% in concrete vats.

Blend

Syrah (100%)

Characteristics and tasting advice for the Les Arènes 2018 cuvée from M. Chapoutier

Tasting

Color
The color is of an intense red with violet reflections.

Nose
The nose offers fragrances of ripe fruits mixed with aromas of raspberry and blackcurrant jams.

Palate
The palate seduces with its aromas of blackberries, spices and cherries as well as the concentration of its tannins that extend to its persistent finish.  

Food and wine pairings

This wine from the Rhône Valley pairs perfectly with fish and meats in sauce, large game as well as terrines (hare, wild boar).