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.

The 2020 Chapoutier Ermitage le Pavillon is a remarkable red wine that embodies the elegance and complexity of the Northern Rhone region in France. Made from the Syrah varietal, this wine showcases the exceptional quality and craftsmanship of the renowned producer, Chapoutier.

In the glass, this wine presents a deep, garnet color that exudes richness and intensity. The nose is immediately captivating, offering a symphony of aromas. Notes of plum, blackcurrant, and soy are prominent, creating a sense of depth and complexity. As the wine opens up, additional layers of graphite, burning embers, crushed stone, and exotic spices unfold, adding intrigue and allure.

On the palate, the 2020 Chapoutier Ermitage le Pavillon delivers a truly exceptional experience. It is fluid and juicy, with great intensity and salinity that do not weigh the wine down. The tannins are ripe and sweet, providing structure and balance, while the acidity adds vibrancy and freshness. This wine is medium-bodied, with a touch of pepperiness on the finish that lingers pleasantly.

Critics have praised this wine for its perfect balance and harmonious nature. It has been described as effortless, yet serious, and its potential for longevity is undeniable. With its incredible concentration and purity, the 2020 Chapoutier Ermitage le Pavillon is a powerhouse that demands patience and cellaring. It is expected to evolve effortlessly over the next 30-40 years.

This wine has received exceptional scores from renowned wine publications. Decanter awarded it 99 points, praising its freshness and balance. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate gave it a perfect score of 100 points, highlighting its chiseled structure and fascinating tension. Jeb Dunnuck also awarded it a perfect score of 100 points, emphasizing its stunning aromatics and long-distance aging potential. Vinous rated it 98 points, noting its impressive energy and concentration. James Suckling awarded it 98 points, recognizing its finesse and density of ripe black fruits.

Overall, the 2020 Chapoutier Ermitage le Pavillon is a wine of exceptional quality and character. It represents the epitome of Hermitage wines, showcasing the best that the Northern Rhone region has to offer. With its remarkable complexity, balance, and aging potential, this wine is a true gem that will continue to delight and impress for years to come.