Grape Variety: 100% Syrah

Growing Region: Rhone Valley, France

Head Winemaker: Caroline Frey

TASTING NOTE:
Contrary to popular belief La Petite Chapelle is not sourced from a single parcel of Hermitage. Rather a masterful blend of the diverse terroirs of Les Bessards, Les Greffeux, Le Meal and Les Rocoules. Each parcel is vinified separately, right until the final blending, which takes place one year after the harvest. The first vintage of 'La Petite Chapelle' was back in 2001.

Many of you may remember the extreme weather experienced across Europe in 2005 - marked by drought for most of the growing season. Selective small parcels were harvest over a 3 week period - each bunch having very small, firm berries, with very thick skins, resulting in a red wine much darker in colour than usual, along with the excellent representation of our terroir.

Grapes are hand-picked and brought to the base of the hill in small sleds. The selected grapes undergo a strict sorting prior to vinification. Each parcel is vinified separately and aged for 15 to 18 months or more in the cellars. Once the final blend is chosen, the wine receives additional time in barrel and is then aged in bottle prior to release.

In the glass you have are greeted by a deep black cherry colour, shining and bright, the wine has an intense aroma of fresh spices, red currants, floral notes and ripe, wild cherries. On the complex palate, the wine has a powerful and harmonious attack on the senses, all wrapped in subtle oak and noble tannins giving the wine a very long and elegant finish. Decant for 60 - 90 minutes and serve at 16 -18C.

CELLARING POTENTIAL:
Approachable this winter season; through would appreciate another 10-12 years.

SUGGESTED FOOD MATCHES:
Perfect wine match with Quail stuffed with foie gras, Duck breast, roast Pork or Lamb shank, enjoy.

A real treat at any occasion.