WINEMAKER’S NOTES:
This rarity (only 600 cases produced annually, from 4 hectares) comes form the granite soils of the “lieu-dit” Les Bessards. Its vines are positioned at a lower-altitude band of the Hermitage hill, at approximately 130 meters, above the ruins of a stone house which gives it its name. The tiny yields here (20 HL/HA) and a fermentation regimen of avoiding stem contact in a 24-28 day maceration, make this a deep, brooding, yet supple wine. Its aging capacity is easily 80-100 years, but its style is much more approachable than the traditional wines from this parcel. It has taken the lead position as M. Chapoutier’s vintage statement for well over a decade.
Deep garnet red with purple highlights. Immediate aromas of tar, slightly closed and smoky followed by aromas of raspberry, blackberry, walnut and licorice. Complex and strong, velvety and balanced, with a long finish of licorice, tobacco and cocoa.
