A staunch advocate of biodynamics, an indefatigable visionary, and, for many, a genuine wine alchemist. Michel Chapoutier is not merely one of the most influential figures in the industry over the past three decades, but also an individual capable of extending his viticultural philosophy to every corner of the globe. From the historic slopes of Hermitage, he has been building an empire that seems boundless, possessing an almost magical gift: enabling many of his creations to achieve the coveted 100 Parker points.
Among his most recent gems shines La Bernardine Blanc, a blend of emblematic grapes from Châteauneuf-du-Pape, predominantly featuring white grenache, accompanied by grey grenache, clairette, and roussanne. The vineyard is situated on ancient quaternary terraces, where the surface is strewn with large Alpine pebbles, which reflect the sun's warmth during the day and gradually release it at night, creating a perfect microclimate for ripening.
The name of the wine, La Bernardine, pays homage to the house nestled amidst the vineyards, acquired by Michel Chapoutier's grandfather, thus becoming a tangible link between family history and viticultural excellence. La Bernardine Blanc unfolds with freshness, complexity, and elegance, thanks to an 8 to 12-month maturation combining 600-litre 'demi-muids' and stainless steel, which imparts structure without sacrificing the purity of the fruit.
With Michel at the helm, the vineyards of the Rhône cease to be mere plots of land. La Bernardine Blanc is further proof that when talent, audacity, and respect for the land are combined, the result can be simply magical.