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 La Mordoree is made from Syrah vines of more than 60 years in age, from vineyard plots located on the border of the “Cote Blonde”. The grapes are hand-harvested at maturity, entirely de-stemmed and vinified in concrete tank. The wine is aged in oak casks, some new, for 14 to 18 months.

The wine has a deep red color. It has aromas of raspberry, a hint of violet, predominant of spices, a touch of black olive and “tapenade”, and rosemary. It has an ample and elegant taste, very well-structured and balanced. Depending on the vintage, the wine can be kept from 30 to 60 years or from 50 to 75 years.

Introducing the 2020 Chapoutier Cote Rotie la Mordoree, a remarkable Syrah from the Northern Rhone region of France. This exquisite red wine is a true testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of the renowned producer, Chapoutier.

With a saturated color that catches the eye, this wine immediately captivates the senses. The nose is filled with an abundance of ripe and expressive aromas that showcase the very best of this varietal. Juicy and fruit-forward, the palate delivers a delightful burst of flavors, accompanied by velvety tannins that provide structure and balance. The fruit in this wine is exceptionally ripe, resulting in a luscious and indulgent experience.

Although still in its embryonic stage, this sample displays considerable oak influence, offering sweet vanilla and spice notes that add depth and complexity. The integration of these elements is seamless, promising a wine that will continue to evolve and reveal its true terroir characteristics over time.

The critics have unanimously praised the 2020 Chapoutier Cote Rotie la Mordoree. Decanter awarded it an impressive score of 93, noting the wine's juiciness, ripe tannins, and well-integrated flavors. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded it an even higher score of 96, describing it as concentrated yet weightless, with a long and elegant finish. Jeb Dunnuck honored this wine with a score of 97+, highlighting its incredible mix of richness and elegance, flawless balance, and ultra-fine tannins. Vinous also rated it 97 points, praising its expansive cherry liqueur aromas, juicy acidity, and strikingly long finish. Finally, James Suckling awarded it a score of 97, emphasizing its dense nose, stunning concentration, and enormous structure.

Crafted from biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification, the 2020 Chapoutier Cote Rotie la Mordoree is a wine of exceptional quality and pedigree. While it can be enjoyed now, it is recommended to cellar this beauty for a few more years to fully appreciate its potential. This wine promises to age gracefully and provide a truly remarkable drinking experience for decades to come.