France · Rhône Valley

M. Chapoutier

Maison M. Chapoutier is one of the Northern Rhône's most important and quality-conscious négociants, and a pioneer of biodynamic viticulture in France. Michel Chapoutier converted the family's entire domaine to biodynamics in 1991, becoming one of the first major producers in the Rhône Valley to do so. The estate was founded in 1808 and today owns or manages vineyards across Hermitage, Crozes-Hermitage, St-Joseph, and Côte-Rôtie, as well as significant properties in Australia. The top single-vineyard wines — Ermitage Le Pavillon (red) and De l'Orée and Chante-Alouette (white) — are considered among the greatest expressions of Hermitage, produced in tiny quantities from the finest parcels. The wines use the Braille labelling system on each bottle, a nod to Michel Chapoutier's commitment to accessibility. Hermitage is the focus: the Syrah reds show extraordinary concentration, mineral depth, and age-worthiness, while the Marsanne whites evolve into wines of monumental complexity over decades. At auction, the single-vineyard Hermitage bottlings — particularly Le Pavillon and De l'Orée from top vintages — are among the most sought-after Rhône wines, with prices reflecting their exceptional quality and minuscule production.