M. Chapoutier Chateauneuf-du-Pape Barbe Rac 2020

Region and Vineyards

Barbe Rac comes from the Barbe d'Asne sector at the western edge of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, an area strewn with the famed galets roulés—large rounded quartzite pebbles left by the ancient Rhône. These stones store daytime heat and radiate it back at night, aiding full phenolic ripeness in Grenache while the underlying Quaternary terrace provides excellent drainage. The Mediterranean climate, marked by abundant sunshine and the cleansing Mistral, favors healthy fruit and concentrated flavors.

The parcel is planted to 90-year-old vines, whose deep root systems temper climatic extremes and translate soil nuance into fruit of exceptional density. Low natural yields are typical of such venerable Grenache, contributing to Barbe Rac's concentration and structure. Stylistically, great Châteauneuf-du-Pape is often shaped more by site and vine age than by new oak; concrete and large neutral vessels are favored to protect Grenache's delicate, oxidative-prone profile and convey terroir unadorned.

Winemaking

Barbe Rac is 100% Grenache, harvested by hand at optimal ripeness and vinified in small concrete vats with ~30% whole clusters. Fermentation proceeds with indigenous yeasts, temperatures capped at about 28 °C, and 3-4 weeks of maceration with minimal intervention to preserve fruit clarity and fine tannin texture.

Élevage is conducted in unlined concrete for approximately 20 months, emphasizing purity and site expression over oak imprint. This approach aligns with regional best practice for top Grenache: concrete safeguards freshness and resists oxygen ingress, allowing the wine's herbal-spicy complexity and mineral length to take center stage while building superb aging potential.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep garnet with youthful purple accents; viscous legs hinting at extract and ripeness.
• Aroma: Crushed strawberry and kirsch layered with garrigue herbs, licorice, cocoa and warm earth; subtle whole-bunch lift adds peppery nuance.
• Palate: Ample and fleshy yet composed; silken tannins carry red-berry richness, licorice and dark chocolate notes toward a remarkably long, savory finish; impressive density without heaviness.

Did you know?

Chapoutier bottles Barbe Rac within its Fac & Spera single-parcel collection, highlighting micro-terroirs through biodynamically farmed old vines and minimal-makeup winemaking—here, concrete over small new oak to respect Grenache's nature and the voice of Barbe d'Asne.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Herb-roasted lamb shoulder: Slow cooking melts collagen, matching the wine's plush texture; rosemary and thyme echo the garrigue notes.
• Duck breast with cherry jus: Dark poultry richness dovetails with Grenache's red-fruit core; acidity in the jus lifts the wine's freshness.
• Beef daube Provençale: Long-braised beef and olives resonate with the wine's savory depth and spice; the dish's gelatinous gloss softens tannins.
• Porcini and fennel-sausage ragù: Earth and anise tones mirror licorice and cocoa nuances while umami amplifies mid-palate sweetness.

History of M. Chapoutier

The history of M. Chapoutier began in 1808, when it was founded as a modest family estate focused on Rhône Valley wines. It grew steadily in prominence, but the turning point came in 1990 with the arrival of Michel Chapoutier, whose bold vision and innovative spirit transformed the estate into an internationally acclaimed name in winemaking.

Michel, renowned for his meticulous attention to detail, implemented biodynamic farming practices as early as 1991, making Chapoutier a pioneer in sustainable viticulture. His philosophy emphasized allowing the vines to express their natural characteristics, using organic and biodynamic principles to enhance soil vitality and promote biodiversity.

In addition to championing terroir-focused winemaking, Michel prioritized inclusivity. In 1996, M. Chapoutier became the first French winery to use Braille on its labels, a groundbreaking initiative inspired by Michel’s close friendship with a blind oenologist. This gesture reflected the estate’s commitment to making fine wine accessible to all.

Under Michel’s leadership, the estate has expanded its influence beyond the Rhône Valley, acquiring vineyards in Roussillon, Alsace, Australia, and Spain. Each new project honors Chapoutier’s philosophy of showcasing the authentic identity of each terroir. Michel also introduced the concept of Sélections Parcellaires, single-vineyard wines that epitomize the unique characteristics of the plots from which they are sourced.

Today, M. Chapoutier stands as a symbol of tradition and innovation, with a legacy built on respect for nature, a passion for terroir, and a commitment to crafting wines that resonate with authenticity and elegance.

Region and Vineyards

M. Chapoutier’s origins and heart remain in the Rhône Valley, home to some of France’s most iconic appellations:

• Hermitage: Known for its legendary terroirs such as Le Méal, L’Ermite, and Le Pavillon, producing wines of unmatched depth and elegance.
• Côte-Rôtie: A region of steep slopes and schist soils, yielding aromatic and structured Syrah.
• Châteauneuf-du-Pape: Famous for its diverse soils, including galets roulés, and complex blends of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre.
• Crozes-Hermitage and Saint-Joseph: Offering fresh and versatile wines that highlight the Rhône’s diversity.

The estate encompasses 1,242 hectares, with 427 hectares certified biodynamic, ensuring sustainable viticulture and authentic expressions of the land. Beyond the Rhône, Chapoutier has extended its vision to regions such as Bila-Haut in Roussillon, Schieferkopf in Alsace, and the Pyrenees in Australia.

Wine Range of M. Chapoutier

M. Chapoutier’s portfolio is diverse and comprehensive, ranging from everyday wines to ultra-premium expressions:

• Sélections Parcellaires: The pinnacle of Chapoutier’s production, these ultra-premium wines like Le Pavillon (Hermitage) and L’Ermite (Hermitage) are made in small quantities from the estate’s best plots.
• Prestige Wines: Iconic appellation wines from regions like Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Côte-Rôtie, and Saint-Joseph, showcasing Rhône Valley tradition.
• Tradition Range: Approachable yet expressive wines, including organic labels, that reflect the diversity of the Rhône.
• International Projects: Wines from Roussillon, Alsace, Portugal, Australia, and Spain, highlighting Chapoutier’s expertise across the globe.
• Specialty Wines and Spirits: Including dessert wines like Banyuls and an artisanal gin, expanding Chapoutier’s portfolio beyond traditional offerings.

Did you know?

In 1996, M. Chapoutier became the first French winery to include Braille on its labels, ensuring accessibility for visually impaired wine lovers and setting a precedent for inclusivity in the wine industry.