Chapoutier La Sizeranne Hermitage 2006

M. Chapoutier's roots in the Rhône date back to 1808, when the family first settled in Tain l'Hermitage. The family purchased a winery owned by Comte Monier de la Sizeranne and over time, acquired a number of excellent vineyards, including some of the oldest in France. M. Chapoutier was the first winery to put Braille on a wine label in 1996. Far from being anecdotic, this symbol draws its origin from the very history of the Hermitage vineyard. Maurice Monier de la Sizeranne, owner of the plot of the Hermitage, la Sizeranne, is also the inventor of the first version of abbreviated Braille. Michel Chapoutier is one of the most highly regarded winemakers in France and since taking over his family firm in 1990 at the age of 26, he has transformed the winery into the leading Rhône producer. The highly sought-after appellation of Hermitage is named after the tiny chapel at its highest point (once home to hermits). Most do not realize Hermitage is comprised of just a few hilltops with very dense terrior. Steep southerly facing terraces with unique microclimates drive rich complexity in the wines. In Hermitage, Syrah achieves its noblest expression and La Sizeranne has become a benchmark wine for the region.

The wine is deep garnet red with purple highlights.

On the nose the wine displays red fruit (raspberry, blackcurrant), with a hint of licorice.

On the palate the wine is round, elegant with soft and concentrated tannins and a long aftertaste of blackcurrant and raspberry.