M. CHAPOUTIER Chateauneuf-du-Pape 'Croix de Bois' - 2021 Bottle Bottle ORG/BIO

Description

IN BRIEF
The 2021 M. Chapoutier Châteauneuf-du-Pape Croix de Bois is an exceptional vintage that showcases the hallmark qualities of this esteemed wine region. With a vibrant, deep red colour, the wine invites exploration of its nuances. The nose reveals a captivating bouquet of fresh black fruits, particularly black cherry and raspberry, layered with hints of herbs de Provence, subtle spice, and floral notes. On the palate, it is rich and expressive, showcasing a full-bodied character with ripe tannins that provide a velvety mouthfeel. The balance between fruit richness and vivacious acidity delivers dark fruit flavours alongside earthy undertones. With a long, fresh finish, it pairs beautifully with hearty dishes. The wine received accolades of 96 points from James Suckling and 94 points from The Wine Advocate.

ABOUT THIS WINE
The 2021 M. Chapoutier Châteauneuf-du-Pape Croix de Bois is an exciting vintage that vividly demonstrates the hallmark qualities of this esteemed wine region. Exhibiting a vibrant, deep red colour, the wine invites you to explore its nuances.

On the nose, the 2021 Croix de Bois offers a captivating bouquet dominated by fresh black fruits, particularly notes of black cherry and raspberry. These aromas are layered with hints of herbs de Provence, subtle spice, and an elegant touch of floral notes, providing a complex yet inviting aromatic profile.

On the palate, the wine is rich and expressive, showcasing a full-bodied character with generous, ripe tannins that lend a velvety mouthfeel. The 2021 vintage strikes a harmonious balance between fruit richness and vivacious acidity, delivering flavours of dark fruits alongside earthy undertones and a hint of minerality that reflects the terroir of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. The finish is long and satisfying, with a freshness that invites another sip.

The vinification process for the 2021 vintage maintains the high standards of M. Chapoutier, utilising concrete tanks for fermentation. The grapes are destemmed, and the maceration lasts around three weeks, allowing for the effective polymerization of tannins while preserving the integrity and freshness of the fruit. As with previous vintages, only the free-run juice is used, ensuring that the wine embodies purity and focus.

While the 2021 M. Chapoutier Châteauneuf-du-Pape Croix de Bois is approachable and enjoyable in its youth, it also possesses considerable aging potential, making it viable for cellaring over the next two to three decades. This wine is an excellent choice for pairing with hearty dishes such as roasted meats, rich stews, or aged cheeses, embodying the essence of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and showcasing the dedication to craftsmanship that Michel Chapoutier is known for.

JAMES SUCKLING 96 points
A very structured and concentrated Chateauneuf for the 2021 vintage, with complex red-fruit aromas and a leafy freshness. In fact, it is almost minty. The fine tannins are quite serious, but the wine moves rather light-footedly over the palate in spite of this. Very long, deep finish that tends in a fascinatingly dark direction. From a slope at the extreme east of Chateauneuf with a very water-retentive soil that makes dry farming no problem. From biodynamically grown grapes. Drinkable now, but best from 2026.
Stuart Pigott

THE WINE ADVOCATE 94 points
Reviewed by: Joe Czerwinski
Drink Date: 2023 - 2035
Another star of the vintage, Chapoutier's 2021 Chateauneuf du Pape Croix de Bois features attractive scents of crushed stone, dried herbs, fresh cherries and red raspberries. It's medium to full-bodied, with a silky mouthfeel and nicely concentrated fruit. It comes across as elegant and long, not overly extracted or tannic.

VINOUS 92-94 points
A single varietal Grenache vinified from biodynamically certified grapes, the 2021 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Croix de Bois aged for 14 to 16 months in stainless steel tanks. The result is a vivid red wafting from the glass with aromas of cooked red and black fruits, abundant exotic spices, crème de cassis and a pinch of white pepper. Full-bodied, rich and layered, it is framed by velvety tannins, flawlessly balanced by lively acidity and closes with a long-lasting finish. - Nicolas Greinacher

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ABOUT M. CHAPOUTIER
M. Chapoutier is a prestigious wine producer located in the Rhône Valley of France, renowned for its unwavering commitment to exceptional quality and biodynamic viticulture. Established in the late 19th century, the estate has developed a strong reputation for producing wines that embody the unique terroir of the region. Under the stewardship of Michel Chapoutier, who took over the family business in the 1990s, the winery has garnered international acclaim for both its traditional and innovative approaches to winemaking.

M. Chapoutier is especially renowned for its outstanding Hermitage wines, crafted from Syrah grapes cultivated on steep hillside vineyards. The winery embraces sustainable practices, incorporating biodynamic farming methods that enhance the natural ecosystem and support the health of the vines. This dedication to organic methods has distinguished M. Chapoutier from many other producers and resonates with environmentally-conscious consumers.

The estate offers a diverse range of wines, including red, white, and sweet varieties, often focusing on single varietals that highlight the characteristics of their respective terroirs. Importantly, the winery is celebrated for its exceptional Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Côte Rôtie wines, which have received significant accolades and recognition within the wine community.

M. Chapoutier's commitment to excellence is reflected in its numerous awards and high ratings from critics. The label is also famous for its braille-embossed bottles, underscoring the producer's dedication to inclusivity and accessibility. With a rich history and a forward-thinking approach, M. Chapoutier continues to be a leading figure in the wine industry, promising exceptional experiences in every bottle.