M. Chapoutier Chateauneuf-du-Pape La Bernardine 2021
(Southern Rhone, France) - [JS 93] [VM 93] [JD 90]

About the Winery:
The name Chapoutier occupies a storied place in the history of the Rhône Valley, beginning 1808, when the family first settled in the Rhône Valley. Throughout the 19^th century and well into the next, M. CHAPOUTIER and its eponymous winery grew steadily, producing wine from esteemed vineyard sites such as Hermitage, Côte-Rôtie and Châteauneuf-du-Pape. However, 1990 was a watershed moment for the winery, with the arrival of Michel Chapoutier. Under his leadership, the maverick winemaker established bold initiatives. For example, the introduction of Single Vineyard Selection that express the unique terroir of a site, or wine labels embossed in braille for the visually impaired. In each instance, Michel’s decisions were, and continue to be, driven by a deep respect for the soil, climate, and his fellow human beings.

About this Wine:
The blending of grape varieties is a characteristic of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation. In ”La Bernardine” red, Grenacheis the main grape used in the blend, with a smaller proportion of Syrah and Mourvèdre. Grenache is a grape variety that brings a natural sweetness to the blend, which gives the wine elegance, silky tannins and great finesse.
A complex but subtle nose with aromas of blackcurrant and plum followed by roasted coffee, cinnamon and morello cherry. On the palate it is spicy and fruity.

Ratings & Reviews:

93 Points - James Suckling:
A textural, refined and velvety Chateauneuf-du-Pape with aromas of forest berries, wet stones, roasted meat, wild herbs and some bark. It’s medium- to full-bodied with fine, firm tannins. There is a refined texture here, silky at the center, with a delicate core of dark cherries challenged by an intense array of spices that provide verve and energy. Lively and focused finish with length. Try after 2026.

91-93 Points - Vinous Media:
"Mostly Clairette (there's 20% Grenache Blanc), the 2022 Châteauneuf Du Pape La Bernardine Blanc has a gorgeous array of ripe pears, honeyed tangerines, white flowers, and a wonderful sense of stony minerality. This all carries to a medium to full-bodied, richly textured, and flawlessly balanced white with integrated acidity and outstanding length." - Nicolas Greinacher (June 2023)

90 Points - Jeb Dunnuck:
"Blackberries, ripe cherries, Provençal garrigue, sandalwood, and savory flower notes all define the aromatics of the 2021 Châteauneuf Du Pape La Bernardine, a pretty, balanced, elegant Châteauneuf du Pape with fine tannin as well as beautiful balance." (Oct 2023)