M. Chapoutier : Les Varonniers 1999

The power and roundness of a Crozes-Ermitage red wine

The estate

Established since 1808 in Tain-L'Hermitage, the M. Chapoutier House today embodies the elite of the greatest names in Rhône Valley wines.

As a winemaker and merchant, Michel Chapoutier has managed over the vintages to lead this family business to the top. The wines of Maison Chapoutier are recognized for their refinement and high quality by the most discerning connoisseurs beyond borders. A man of many hats, Michel Chapoutier holds the world record for 100/100 scores awarded by American critic Robert Parker. Mathilde, Michel Chapoutier's daughter, has taken up the torch of this iconic house, overseeing a vineyard of over 350 hectares across the most prestigious appellations of the northern and southern Rhône Valley.

The vineyard

Les Varonniers 1999 from M. Chapoutier is a Crozes-Ermitage wine made from old Syrah vines, planted on south-west facing granite slopes at the end of the Hermitage hill.

Vinification and aging

Vinification in small concrete vats. Maceration for almost a month. Exclusive use of runoff wine. The aging of 14 to 18 months is carried out exclusively in oak barrels, a certain percentage of which are new.

Blend

Syrah (100%).

Characteristics and tasting advice for the Les Varonniers 1999 cuvée from M. Chapoutier

Tasting

Color
The color is endowed with a beautiful very dark garnet red hue.

Nose
The aromatic bouquet offers fragrances of very ripe red fruits (blackcurrant, raspberry) which evolve towards licorice notes.

Palate
The palate, full and firm, develops powerful tannins as well as a jammy and vanilla finish.

Food and wine pairings

Small game (wild boar terrine, hare stew) or even cheeses (farmer's Saint Nectaire) are refined pairings with this wine from the Rhône Valley.