M. Chapoutier : Croix de Bois 2020

The elegance and complexity of a red wine from Châteauneuf-du-Pape signed M. Chapoutier

The property

Established since 1808 in Tain-L’Hermitage, the House of M. Chapoutier today embodies the elite of the greatest names in wines from the Rhône Valley.

Vinegrower and merchant, Michel Chapoutier has managed over the vintages to lead this family business to the top. The wines of Maison Chapoutier are recognized for their refinement and high quality by the finest connoisseurs beyond borders. A man of many hats, Michel Chapoutier holds the world record for 100/100 scores awarded by American critic Robert Parker. Mathilde, Michel Chapoutier's daughter, has taken up the torch of this iconic house, overseeing a vineyard of over 350 hectares across the most prestigious appellations of the northern and southern Rhône Valley.

The vineyard

Croix de Bois 2020 from M. Chapoutier is a Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine made from vineyards planted on typical soils of the appellation, composed of rolled quartzite pebbles and sandy red clay.

Vinification and aging

Harvested by hand, the grapes undergo a rigorous sorting before vinification in closed concrete vats. Total destemming. Maceration for 3 weeks. Exclusive use of free-run wine. Aging in vats for a duration of 14 to 16 months.

The vintage

The mild winter, marked by a water deficit, allows the early appearance of buds in mid-March. Even if temperatures drop in April, the rainfall in May and the rise in temperatures accelerate the vegetative cycle. The dry summer climate of June in the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation gives Grenache ideal maturation conditions. Characterized by exceptional precocity and a scorching heart of summer, the 2020 vintage offers wines filled with elegance.

Blend

Grenache (100%).

Characteristics and tasting advice for the Croix de Bois 2020 cuvée from M. Chapoutier

Tasting

Color
The color reveals a beautiful red.

Nose
The nose is intensely fruity, combining notes of black fruits and blackberry jam.

Palate
Ample and creamy, the palate stands out for its fine tannins and its structure.

Food and wine pairings

This wine from the Rhône Valley pairs perfectly with poultry (duck, farm pigeon), small game (pheasant) or cheeses (Brie de Meaux).