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.

The 2020 Chapoutier Cote Rotie Neve is a captivating red wine that showcases the elegance and power of Syrah from the Northern Rhone region in France. With its deep magenta hue, this wine is visually striking and alluring, enticing you to explore its complex aromas and flavors.

On the nose, the Cote Rotie Neve reveals a harmonious blend of ripe black raspberries, cassis, cherry, and hints of smoky bacon. The bouquet is further enhanced by notes of mint, incense, iron, and spring flowers, adding layers of complexity to the wine's aromatic profile.

As you take your first sip, the wine envelops your palate with its full-bodied and powerful presence. The pure, concentrated flavors of dark berries, bitter cherry, and espresso captivate the senses, leaving a lasting impression. The wine's impeccable balance is showcased by its ultra-fine tannins and seamless integration of oak.

The 2020 Cote Rotie Neve has received high praise from esteemed wine critics. Decanter awarded it 94 points, noting its medium-bodied and precise nature, along with its excellent balance and long finish. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate scored it 95 points, praising its silkiness, elegance, and length. Jeb Dunnuck was particularly impressed, awarding it a remarkable 98 points and describing it as a wine that stopped him in his tracks. Vinous also recognized its excellence, awarding it 97 points and highlighting its juicy dark berry flavors and fine-grained tannins. James Suckling joined in the chorus, giving it a stunning 98 points and marveling at its power and refinement.

This wine is a true gem from the renowned producer Chapoutier. It is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, reflecting the terroir of the Cote Rotie appellation. With its incredible structure and potential for aging, the 2020 Chapoutier Cote Rotie Neve is a wine that will continue to evolve and impress for many years to come.