M. CHAPOUTIER Crozes-Hermitage Rouge 'Les Meysonniers' 2023 Bottle ORG

Description

IN BRIEF
The 2023 M. Chapoutier Crozes-Hermitage Rouge 'Les Meysonniers' is a remarkable representation of the Rhône Valley, crafted from 100% Syrah grapes sourced from vines over 25 years old. This wine showcases the region's unique terroir and Michel Chapoutier's commitment to organic viticulture. It features an intense purplish-red hue, indicating depth and concentration. The traditional vinification includes techniques like punching down in concrete tanks, enhancing extraction while preserving character. Aged for about 12 months, 85% matures in concrete to maintain freshness, while 15% is aged in barrels for complexity. The nose offers aromas of blackcurrant and raspberry, with a rich palate featuring stewed fruits and a hint of vanilla. Rated 92 points by James Suckling, it pairs wonderfully with various dishes.

ABOUT THIS WINE
The 2023 M. Chapoutier Crozes-Hermitage Rouge 'Les Meysonniers' is a stellar representation of the Rhône Valley, crafted from 100% Syrah grapes sourced from vines that are at least 25 years old. This wine showcases the region's unique terroir and reflects Michel Chapoutier's commitment to organic and sustainable viticulture.

In appearance, this Crozes-Hermitage displays a very intense purplish-red hue, hinting at its depth and concentration. The vinification process is traditional, employing techniques such as punching down and pumping over in concrete tanks to enhance extraction while preserving the wine's delicate character. The grapes are organically grown, with an emphasis on avoiding chemical products, which allows the vines to develop deeper root systems. This results in more even physiological behaviour and greater resilience to varying weather conditions, contributing to the wine's balance and pronounced minerality.

Aged for around 12 months, 85% of this wine matures in concrete tanks, which helps maintain the freshness and minerality of the fruit, while the remaining 15% is aged in barrels to impart consistency, power, and aromatic complexity.

On the nose, the 2023 Les Meysonniers reveals enticing aromas of red fruits, particularly blackcurrant and raspberry, complemented by delicate notes of violet. The palate is ample and round, delivering a rich experience with flavours of stewed fruits and a hint of vanilla on the finish, adding to its luscious character.

This Crozes-Hermitage Rouge pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes, making it a versatile choice for any meal. It complements all meats and poultry, particularly cooked pork dishes, as well as various cheeses, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Overall, the 2023 M. Chapoutier Crozes-Hermitage Rouge 'Les Meysonniers' stands out for its balance, refinement, and expressive fruit character, making it an excellent choice for both enjoyable drinking now and for cellaring in the future.

JAMES SUCKLING 92 points
A well-balanced, peppery and chalky wine with aromas of dark berries, meat and fresh black pepper. It’s medium-bodied with chalky tannins. Inky and delicious, with a flavorful, tactile finish. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.

VINOUS 87-98 points
Raised entirely in concrete, the juicy 2023 Crozes-Hermitage Les Meysonniers kicks off with notes of ripe black cherry, red plum and a citric flicker of grapefruit. Easygoing and inviting, I’d like to see the medium-bodied 2023 picking up a little more concentration and length during the remainder of its élevage. Drink: 2025 - 2029 - 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.