M. Chapoutier : Les Granilites 2017

Characteristics and tasting notes for the "Les Granilites" 2017 M. Chapoutier

Tasting notes

Color
A beautiful garnet red hue of medium intensity, this wine is enhanced by subtle violet nuances.

Nose
Displaying beautiful intensity, the aromatic bouquet reveals notes of wild black berries such as blackcurrant and blackberry. It then opens onto a marked minerality reminiscent of graphite, harmoniously rounded out by delicate oak notes.

Palate
The attack is smooth and perfectly balanced, supported by fine, tight-knit tannins. The palate stands out for its superb mineral and saline tension, typical of its terroir. The finish, beautifully long, extends with persistent aromas of black fruits, enhanced by smoky touches and subtle hints of licorice.

Food and wine pairing

This red wine pairs wonderfully with grilled or roasted meats, such as veal chops or a rack of lamb with herbs of Provence. It will also elevate roast duck with black fruits, wild mushroom risotto, a charcuterie board, or aged cheeses such as Comté or Tomme de Savoie.

Service and storage

With its beautiful structure, "Les Granilites" 2017 is a wine built for aging, offering great tasting pleasure in its youth as well as after several years of cellaring.

The authentic expression of Saint-Joseph's granitic terroir by M. Chapoutier

The estate

Founded in 1808, the house took its definitive name in 1955 before undergoing a major turning point under the leadership of Michel Chapoutier, the current owner, who took over in 1990. An emblematic figure of the Rhône Valley, M. Chapoutier distinguished himself through his pioneering approach to biodynamic viticulture and the creation of parcel-specific selections. The estate is also recognized for its commitment to accessibility, having incorporated braille on all its labels since 1996. Today, the new generation, represented by Maxime and Mathilde, continues to carry on this legacy of excellence.

The vineyard

Located at the heart of the Saint-Joseph appellation, this vineyard spans the historic communes of Charnas, Tournon, and Mauves. The vines benefit from a southeast exposure on steep hillsides, taking advantage of the altitude and the cooling winds of the mistral. The soils, composed exclusively of weathered granite, offer excellent drainage and low fertility. These demanding conditions force the roots to dig deep for their nutrients, giving the grapes exceptional concentration and minerality, all cultivated in full accordance with biodynamic principles.

The vintage

The year was marked by a particularly early growing cycle. Spared from spring frosts, the vines flowered three weeks ahead of the historical average. This early development resulted in small clusters and berries, naturally reducing yields. The harvest, carried out under dry, sunny conditions several weeks ahead of schedule, produced grapes of remarkable richness, offering beautiful concentration while maintaining an ideal balance.

Winemaking and aging

The grapes for the "Les Granilites" 2017 cuvée are harvested by hand. Fermentation begins naturally with indigenous yeasts in temperature-controlled concrete vats, accompanied by a four-week maceration. Malolactic fermentation then takes place in oak barrels. For aging, 25% of the wine rests in French oak barrels, some of which are new, to add complexity. The remaining 75% is aged in concrete vats to preserve the freshness and mineral brightness of the fruit.

Grape variety

This wine is made exclusively from Syrah.