At a glance

Producer

M. Chapoutier

Region

Côtes du Roussillon Villages, Roussillon, France

Grape variety

Syrah, Grenache, Carignan

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

Approximately $20-$30 per 750ml bottle (retail average, based on Wine-Searcher and major online merchants in 2024)

Tasting profile

Ripe black cherry, blackberry, and black plum fruit dominate with herbal nuances of garrigue, spice, and a touch of licorice. Oak influences add subtle vanilla and toast. Medium to full-bodied mouthfeel with balanced acidity and a lingering finish.

Evolution: Over next 3-5 years aromatics will gain complexity with more pronounced floral notes, earthiness, and greater integration of spice and minerality.

At peak: At peak, expect a harmonious balance with softened tannins, intense layered fruit, and enhanced savory and smoky notes.

Structure

Acidity

Medium acidity providing freshness and excellent aging backbone

Tannins

Medium to medium-plus tannins with good resolution but retaining firm grip indicative of Grenache and Syrah backbone

Alcohol

Approximately 14-14.5%, well-integrated, typical of Roussillon red blends

Aging potential

7-10 years from vintage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2028

Optimal window

2023 to 2030

Current status

Drinkable now with some benefit from additional cellaring

Current condition

The 2019 is showing ripe fruit and balanced acids with tannins that have softened somewhat but still provide structure for a few more years of aging.

The 2019 vintage’s warm Mediterranean climate yielded concentrated fruit flavors while retaining refreshing acidity. The medium tannin structure provides enough backbone for at least a decade’s aging. Younger years can show vibrant primary fruit, but the mid to late 2020s will deepen complexity as secondary and tertiary aromas develop, then gradually wane after 2030 as fruit fades and tertiary notes dominate.

Food pairing

Pairs excellently with hearty grilled meats such as lamb chops, beef stew, or roasted pork with herbs. Also complements Provencal dishes with olives and rosemary, ratatouille, and aged hard cheeses like Manchego or Comté. As the wine evolves, it will match well with more earthy dishes including mushroom ragouts and slow-cooked game.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (45 minutes to 1 hour) — To allow the tannins to soften and the aromas to fully open, particularly because it is still relatively young with firm structure.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 9/10

M. Chapoutier applies biodynamic viticulture focusing on natural soil health, minimal chemical intervention, and holistic vineyard ecosystem management.

The high sustainability rating reflects the certified organic and biodynamic certifications backed by Chapoutier’s well-documented environmental practices and commitment to ecosystem balance in vineyard management.