Two Rhônes That Over Deliver: Embracing the Cozy Wine Pairings with M. Chapoutier
As a devout Rhône Valley wine lover, I’m always on the hunt for bottles that punch above their weight. I look for wines that deliver the soul of their terroir without demanding a king’s ransom. The Rhône Valley, after all, is the heartland of my vinous admiration, thanks to the pioneering spirit of producers like M. Chapoutier.
Michel Chapoutier is an icon. I’ve written before about my great admiration for his commitment. As I wrote in my piece about him before, he is a pioneer who champions the very best in organic and biodynamic farming. He constantly pushes the French wine industry toward a more expressive, natural future. M. Chapoutier’s dedication to letting the earth speak for itself is why his wines, from his world-famous Hermitage to his more accessible cuvées, are always a sensational discovery.
This season, as the air turns crisp and the leaves ignite in color, I’m thrilled to share two recent releases from this esteemed house. They perfectly embody the transition into fall.
M. Chapoutier’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that the quality of the wine comes from the raw materials, i.e. the vine, the soil, and the climate, not the cellar. His pioneering move into biodynamics in the Rhône Valley has been instrumental in creating wines that are not merely technical. They are truthful, concentrated expressions of their terroir. It is this meticulous, respectful work in the vineyard that ensures even these more accessible appellations provide the complexity and depth typically reserved for higher-priced bottles.
Châteauneuf du Pape’s white wines are a beautiful, if often overlooked, treasure. This bottle is a true expression of grace, crafted primarily from Grenache Blanc and Clairette grown in the region’s sun-drenched, stony vineyards. It’s a gentle embrace of fall’s softer side—a reminder that not every autumnal wine must be bold and brooding.
• Tasting Notes: The wine opens with delicate layers of pear skin, soft white peach, and a whisper of almond blossom. A subtle, savory hint of wild fennel anchors the fruit. This provides both complexity and a distinctly Mediterranean profile.
• The Mood: Imagine golden hour—a quiet walk through rustling leaves, the comfort of the first cashmere sweater of the season. It’s a moment of serene reflection and refined beauty.
• The Pairing: This wine shines when paired with the elegant flavors of the season, such as creamy mushroom risotto or a comforting roasted squash and chestnut soup. To truly elevate the experience to a sensory feast, serve it with beeswax candles flickering and linen napkins laid out.
From the granitic heart of the Northern Rhône, this 100% Syrah is an absolute stunner. It is a clear example of why this producer’s wines are such a value. Furthermore, Les Meysonniers acts as a soulful companion to cooler nights and heartier meals. It delivers deep flavor and impeccable balance for its price point.
• Tasting Notes: The nose is an intoxicating mix of dark fruit and savory spice. Think rich blackberry compote meeting a dusting of cracked pepper. Also, a floral lift of violet and a beautiful hint of damp forest floor.
• The Mood: Picture a cozy fireside evening, the scent of rain on stone, and rich stories shared over candlelight. It’s the grounding, comforting pulse of the season captured in a glass.
• The Pairing: Enjoy this alongside richly flavored dishes like hearty lentil stew, savory duck confit, or grilled eggplant with harissa spice. As I always say, wrap yourself in a wool blanket and allow the wine to speak in slow, smoky tones.
• The Pro Tip: As Jeb Dunnuck noted, “The 2023 Crozes-Hermitage Les Meysonniers has slightly riper aromatics of black raspberries, pepper, wildflowers, and spice that carry to a medium-bodied Syrah that’s beautifully balanced, with fine tannins and outstanding length.” I couldn’t agree more. Moreover, this wine, aged predominantly in concrete to preserve its freshness, is simply one of the best value Syrahs you can find.
On Hallows’ Eve and throughout the fall, my wish is for all of us to share such over-delivering wines with the people we cherish.I remember my own grandparents and those special moments. Wines like these, produced by a family dedicated to natural excellence, carry that same spirit of legacy and generosity.
If you are a lover of the Rhône, or simply seeking a beautifully crafted wine that offers outstanding complexity for the price, these two releases from M. Chapoutier are essential additions to your cellar and your table.
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