Chapoutier

As one of the largest and most recognized négociant and winemaking firms in the Rhône Valley (and all of France), one might think M. Chapoutier would overlook quality, favoring macro economies of scale over conscientious, terroir driven wines of soul and distinction. And that thought couldn’t be further from the truth. Established in 1879, Chapoutier is one of the oldest names in Rhône, producing benchmark wines focused on enhancing varietal character, vintage trademarks, and terroir signatures. In addition, this firm made the conscientious decision to farm completely biodynamically since 1991 and to include braille on their labels since 1995. Their best bottlings hail from single vineyards in Hermitage (the stunning Le Pavillon Ermitage) and several varietally Châteauneuf du Papes (including the top-level Croix de Bois).