M. Chapoutier : Domaine Terlato et Chapoutier "L-Block" 2025

Tasting notes and recommendations for Domaine Terlato et Chapoutier "L-Block" 2025 by M. Chapoutier

Tasting

Appearance

The wine displays a deep, dark ruby hue, a sign of fine concentration.

Nose

The nose expresses itself with intensity, revealing aromas of blackberry enhanced by spicy notes of allspice and a subtle hint of eucalyptus bringing freshness.

Palate

The palate is ample and complex, combining flavors of olive tapenade, red fruits, and white pepper. The generous finish is supported by silky, finely integrated tannins.

A silky and elegant Victoria wine

The estate

Founded in 1808, the M. Chapoutier House is a benchmark of the Rhône Valley. Under the leadership of Michel Chapoutier from 1989 onward, the estate turned toward biodynamics and single-parcel selections. Today, Mathilde and Maxime Chapoutier continue this tradition. The House also stands out for introducing braille on its labels in 1996. In 2000, a partnership with the Terlato family gave rise to Domaine Terlato & Chapoutier, extending this expertise to the Victoria region in Australia.

The vineyard

Located in the Pyrenees region at an altitude of 400 meters, the L-shaped parcel benefits from full southern exposure. This cool terroir is characterized by mineral-rich soils composed of schist and flagstone combining limestone and quartz. The low-yielding vines have shown remarkable resilience, surviving thirteen years of drought without irrigation and producing highly concentrated grapes.

The vintage

In Australia, the 2025 vintage shows a slightly below-average harvest due to climatic hazards and deliberate yield restrictions. Spring frosts caused localized losses, while summer heat and drought increased the risk of wildfires. However, these dry conditions promoted good sanitary quality and even ripening. The grapes therefore display excellent quality, with controlled volumes and satisfactory maturity.

Vinification and aging

The grapes for Domaine Terlato et Chapoutier "L-Block" are fully destemmed before fermentation with indigenous yeasts in concrete tanks for around two weeks. This is followed by an extended maceration lasting one month, with gentle extraction through pump-overs to preserve the finesse of the tannins. After pressing at the end of May, this Victoria wine is aged for 18 months in French oak barrels.

Grape variety

Domaine Terlato et Chapoutier "L-Block" 2025 by M. Chapoutier is made from 100% Syrah.