M. Chapoutier : L'Ermite 2014

A refined and mineral red wine from Ermitage

The estate

Established since 1808 in Tain-L'Hermitage, M. Chapoutier today embodies the elite among the greatest names in 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 the northern and southern Rhône Valley region.

The vineyard

L'Ermite by M. Chapoutier is a plot-based Ermitage wine that stems from a selection of old Syrah vines. Located at the top of the Hermitage hill, in a place called l'Ermite, these vineyards are over 80 years old and are planted on very nutrient-poor granite soils.

Winemaking and ageing

The grapes are harvested by hand late in the season in order to obtain favourable natural degrees. The grapes are 100% destemmed and vinified 100% in concrete vats. Maceration lasts about 4 weeks and is carried out at a temperature not exceeding 32°C in order to guarantee optimal extraction. Only free-run wine is used in the production of this wine. Following the run-off, the wine is placed in new barrels and one-year-old barrels for ageing.

Blend

Syrah (100%).

Characteristics and tasting tips for M. Chapoutier's Ermitage Ermite 2014

Tasting

With its finesse and minerality, M. Chapoutier's Ermite 2014 is the perfect expression of a vintage characterised by its freshness. This wine delights with its youth, its vivacity and its delicate smoky notes.

Food and wine pairing

This Rhône Valley wine can be served with red meats (rib steak) or indeed game (roast venison, wild boar stew).