Maison M. Chapoutier
The name Chapoutier occupies a storied place in the history of the Rhône Valley, beginning 1808, when the family first settled in the Rhône Valley. Throughout the 19th century and well into the next, M. CHAPOUTIER and its eponymous winery grew steadily, producing wine from esteemed vineyard sites such as Hermitage, Côte-Rôtie and Châteauneuf-du-Pape. However, 1990 was a watershed moment for the winery, with the arrival of Michel Chapoutier. Under his leadership, the maverick winemaker established bold initiatives. For example, the introduction of Single Vineyard Selection that express the unique terroir of a site, or wine labels embossed in braille for the visually impaired. In each instance, Michel’s decisions were, and continue to be, driven by a deep respect for the soil, climate, and his fellow human beings.
No name is more closely associated with the greatness of the Rhone valley than Chapoutier.
Michel Chapoutier believes that only healthy vines growing within a balanced ecosystem can make great wine. Since 1990, The Maison M. CHAPOUTIER have pursued an unwavering commitment to practicing biodynamic viticulture. All chemical pesticides and herbicides are prohibited. Vineyards are nourished with organic matter, thereby preserving, and promoting the good bacteria inherent in healthy soils. Additionally, all vineyard decisions such as when to prune or harvest are informed by the cycles of the earth, sun, and moon.
A profound respect for nature and its rhythms inspires him to continually learn, improve and imagine new possibilities. This philosophy and practice have been validated time and time again, as M. CHAPOUTIER is the most awarded winery in the world, with more 100-point scores from Robert Parker and more 90+ ratings than any other winemaker.
The history of the Chapoutier family stretches back to the early nineteenth century when current owner Michel Chapoutier's great-, great-, great-grandfather Marius purchased an estate and some vineyards in the now famous village of Tain l'Hermitage in the Northern Rhône Valley. Marius Chapoutier made history in the region when he became the first grape grower there to vinify his own fruit. Marius had tasted wines other winemakers produced using his fruit and he realized that something was lost in translation, so to speak. He knew that he owned some of the best growing sites in the appellation and he believed — rightly — that the grapes grown in his vineyards could produce long-lived world-class wines. In a move unusual at the time, he decided that he should make the wine himself. Not only did the quality of the wines increase greatly, but this move provided the capital to expand the Chapoutiers’ already legendary estate.
Today, M. CHAPOUTIER is the biggest vineyard owner of the Hermitage appellation. The Maison holds 389 organic or biodynamic hectares and its aim is to reveal Terroirs and fine wines. The family winery also faced radical changes in its winemaking and vineyard management approach when Michel converted the entire estate to biodynamic farming in 1991. Michel also introduced the brail language on the labels and he has had a strong input in the creation of the “Best French Sommelier Student Challenge”. M. CHAPOUTIER wines are crafted with uttermost attention and respect. Winemaking and vineyard management are the strictest representation of Terroirs and vintages, like a painter would discreetly signs at the bottom of his work.
CHAPOUTIER is an impressive line-up of some of America’s most loved and respected wines. From the well-known centenary Belleruche brand, to the world-renowned Selections Parcellaires, M. CHAPOUTIER is always looking for the most-outstanding terroirs with a biodynamic approach. M. CHAPOUTIER offers an array of wines to suit every palate and price point.
