Tradition and nobility of Rhone viticulture. All this can be found in Le Pavillon, by M. Chapoutier, a wine that well represents the legendary appellation Hermitage and has received excellent reviews from critics halfway around the world. Hermitage is one of the most famous and prestigious appellations in the Rhone Valley. Situated on a hill overlooking the river, this region is known for its unique soils and an ideal microclimate for viticulture. The vines from which Le Pavillon comes are planted on a parcel of around 4 hectares, characterised by a soil rich in fine sediments on a granitic subsoil. The vines, which are between 90 and 100 years old, produce grapes of exceptional quality, thanks in part to their advanced age that guarantees a low yield but very high concentration. The grapes are harvested by hand at the limit of over-ripening. After harvesting, the bunches are completely destemmed and fermentation takes place in cement tanks, with temperatures not exceeding 32°C. Maceration lasts between 4 and 5 weeks and allows optimal extraction of the tannins, giving the wine its typical structure. For ageing, the producer chooses to use only oak barrels, with a percentage of new ones of 30%. This phase lasts 18 to 20 months. Before bottling, clarification takes place naturally, without mechanical intervention. Crimson in colour with garnet highlights, on the nose, notes of asphalt and graphite emerge, with subtle hints of cedar. In the mouth, it then reveals great complexity. The structure is powerful yet elegant, with well-polymerised tannins and a long, persistent finish. Depending on the vintage, Le Pavillon can age for an extraordinarily long period, ranging from 30 to 60 years, and in some exceptional vintages it can even last 50 to 75 years. Le Pavillon is a wine that goes well with rich, flavoursome dishes. It is ideal with red meats, game and mature cheeses.