Author: Dirk Chan
Chapoutier, or Maison M. Chapoutier, is a winery and négociant business situated in Tain-l’Hermitage in the Rhône region in France. Chapoutier produces wine from appellations all across the Rhône region, including our weekly online offer this week – the 2016 Crozes Hermitage Les Meysonniers – $24.99 (regularly $30.99). Chapoutier’s wines garner a lot of accolades and attention because of its quality and consistency. His wine labels are also distinctive as well because of their inclusion of Braille writing on all its labels since 1996 and many are certified organic including this red.
This is made from Syrah from the lower slopes and the flats south and east of the famed Hermitage Hill. The nose offers florals – violets, black pepper, an attractive meaty and leathery scents with a twist of smoky garrigue. The attack is more elegant than you might expect with meaty, peppery, savoury hints, roasted peppers and dried provencal herbs. The finish is of ripe cherries, plums and earthy hints with soft tannins. Lovely with a wintery stew.