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 Ermitage le Pavillon is made from syrah vines with an average age of 90+ years. The grapes are hand-harvested, totally de-stemmed, and fermented in concrete tanks. The wine mature in oak casks for 18 to 20 months.

Le Pavillon has a deep garnet red color with purple highlights. It is tarry and smoky on the nose with aromas of raspberry, blackberry, walnut and licorice. The wine has a complex taste and strong attack. It is velvety and balanced, with a long final finish and flavors of liquorice, tobacco and cocoa. Depending on the vintage, the wine can be kept from 30 to 60 years or even from 50 to 75 years.

Introducing the 2018 Chapoutier Ermitage le Pavillon, a truly exquisite wine hailing from the prestigious Hermitage appellation in the Northern Rhone region of France. Crafted by the renowned producer Chapoutier, this red wine is a masterpiece of elegance and complexity.

In the glass, this wine exhibits a deep, vibrant ruby color that catches the light, hinting at the richness and depth that awaits. The aromas that waft from the glass are nothing short of enchanting. A bouquet of ripe plum, sweet violets, and blueberry dances gracefully, enticing the senses with each swirl of the glass. There is a sense of purity and balance that is immediately apparent, a hallmark of the Ermitage le Pavillon.

On the palate, this wine reveals its true character. Silky and smooth, it caresses the tongue with a finesse that can only come from years of meticulous craftsmanship. The tannins, while present, are refined and integrated, adding structure and depth without overpowering the fruit. Flavors of luscious plum, juicy blueberry, and a hint of violets mingle harmoniously, creating a symphony of taste that lingers on the palate.

Critics have been captivated by the charm of the 2018 Ermitage le Pavillon. Decanter awarded it a remarkable score of 96 points, praising its balance, purity, and finesse. Jeb Dunnuck, another esteemed critic, awarded it an impressive 98+ points, noting its backward mouthfeel, present tannins, and potential for long-term aging. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also awarded it 98 points, describing it as plush, full-bodied, and with velvety tannins.

As for its aging potential, this wine is built to last. With its solid structure and impeccable balance, it has the potential to age gracefully for decades. While it can certainly be enjoyed in its youth, those with the patience to cellar this wine will be rewarded with a truly remarkable experience.

In conclusion, the 2018 Chapoutier Ermitage le Pavillon is a wine that exemplifies the artistry and mastery of winemaking. With its exquisite flavors, impeccable balance, and potential for long-term aging, it is a wine that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression. Whether enjoyed now or laid down for future enjoyment, this wine is a true gem that showcases the best of what the Rhone region has to offer.