Chapoutier is one of the oldest wine producers in the Rhone Valley with a history dating back to 1808. A distant ancestor, Polydor Chapoutier, was the first to buy vines here, shifting from being a simple grape grower to making and trading his own wine. For the last two hundred years, the estate has been producing some of the greatest wines in the Rhone Valley. Today, the range also includes wines from some Roussillon appellations as well as projects in Portugal and Australia.

Under Michel Chapoutier’s leadership, quality improved and Chapoutier gained international recognition. The massive negociant and winery produces single-vineyard expressions and classic wines from a range of appellations in the north and south of the valley.

They have adopted biodynamic farming techniques and have included Braille markings on their labels since 1996. This was done from a desire to reach out to and include lovers of good wines with sight-impairments, and as a tribute to Maurice Monier of La Sizeranne, a member of the family that previously owned the vines of the same name and who invented the first abbreviated version of Braille.

Chapoutier’s lauded Cuvee de l’Oree is made from Marsanne vines 60 to 70 years in age. The grapes come from the “Les Murets” plot on soil with very old fluvioglacial alluvial deposits.

De L’Oree has an intense golden yellow color, with hints of green and gold. The aromas are very intense, with hot shingles, toffee, and very ripe, fruity lemon with floral overtones of acacia and hawthorn. The wine has a well-rounded start, full body and is very complex, with overtones of ripe fruits, spices and roasting. It is very long in the mouth, with a fresh final note. Depending on the vintage, the wine can be kept from 30 to 60 years or even from 50 to 75 years.

Introducing the exquisite 2018 Chapoutier Ermitage Cuvee de l'Orée, a white wine that exudes elegance and finesse. Hailing from the renowned Hermitage appellation in the Northern Rhone region of France, this wine showcases the exceptional quality of Marsanne grapes grown in this terroir.

In the glass, this white beauty displays a brilliant straw-gold color that catches the light and hints at the richness within. On the nose, powerful mineral notes take center stage, accompanied by alluring aromas of orchard and pit fruits. Lemon curd, iodine, and pungent floral accents add complexity and depth to the bouquet.

As the wine caresses your palate, intense flavors of pear nectar and Meyer lemon captivate the senses. The concentration of these flavors is truly remarkable, showcasing the wine's superb quality. With each sip, the definition becomes clearer, and a seductive floral nuance builds, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors.

The 2018 Chapoutier Ermitage Cuvee de l'Orée strikes the perfect balance between weight and freshness. While it possesses a substantial body, it maintains a sense of vitality and liveliness. The acidity, though low, adds a refreshing touch to the wine, enhancing its overall appeal.

Renowned wine critics have praised this vintage, with Decanter awarding it an impressive score of 95 points. Jeb Dunnuck, from jebdunnuck.com, went even further, bestowing a remarkable score of 98+, proclaiming it as a brilliant wine that will age gracefully for 20 years or more.

With only 52 cases imported, this wine is a rare gem that deserves a place in any wine connoisseur's collection. Its creamy texture, racy spine, and bright energy make it a joy to savor on its own or paired with gourmet seafood dishes. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for a few years, the 2018 Chapoutier Ermitage Cuvee de l'Orée promises an unforgettable sensory experience.