At a glance

Producer

M. Chapoutier

Region

Hermitage, Northern Rhône, France

Grape variety

Syrah

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$150-$250

Tasting profile

Notes of dark berries, smoked meat, graphite, and pepper; assertive tannins and fresh acidity

Evolution: Over the next decade, fruit will integrate with tertiary notes of leather, truffle, and earth

At peak: Complex, balanced, and elegant bouquet with silky texture and persistent finish

Structure

Acidity

Medium-high, balanced

Tannins

Firm, well-structured, ripe

Alcohol

14%-14.5%

Aging potential

20-25+ years with proper cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2030 to 2054

Optimal window

2025 to 2057

Current status

Early maturity, developing complexity

Current condition

Cellaring recommended; tannins and acidity are firm and structured

Ermitage Le Pavillon is a top-tier cuvée from M. Chapoutier made from Syrah on steep granite slopes. The 2017 vintage, a warm year, produces ripe and structured wines with long aging potential. The wine's firm tannins and balanced acidity will mellow gracefully over approximately 20-25 years, improving complexity and harmony.

Food pairing

Pairs well with hearty red meats, game dishes, rich stews, and aged hard cheeses like Comté or Gruyère.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften tannins and allow aromatic complexity to open up

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Emphasizes biodynamic agriculture, minimal intervention winemaking, energy-efficient operations, and water conservation

M. Chapoutier is a recognized leader in sustainable and biodynamic viticulture. The Ermitage Le Pavillon vineyards employ biodynamic farming that promotes soil health without synthetic chemicals. Energy and water use are carefully managed, and the winery has implemented eco-friendly packaging to reduce waste and footprint. These combined approaches result in a strong sustainability profile, ranking this wine highly for environmental responsibility.