M. Chapoutier, Ermitage, Le Pavillon Rouge [domaine release - signed Magnum], 2007
100% Syrah from vines with an average age of 65 years. Le Pavillon is a small, 4 hectare plot, that lends its name to this single-vineyard cuvee. All of Chapoutiers' vineyards are farmed organically and the wines certified biodynamic. Grapes are hand-harvested to allow selection in the vineyard and fermentation takes place in concrete tanks. The wine is then matured in barrel for between 18 and 20 months. Tarry and smoky notes, raspberry, blackberry, walnut and liquorice come through on the nose. The palate is balanced and complex with velvety tannins and flavours of liquorice, tobacco and cocoa. With an ageing potential between 30 to 60 years, this wine is likely to go the distance given the superb vintage conditions and magnum format. This magnum is signed by Michel Chapoutier, Mathilde Chapoutier and Maxime Chapoutier.

All lots in this special charity auction were donated by the producers and shipped directly from their cellars. Now lying at LCB VT. The entire sale proceeds will be shared equally between these two worthwhile charities: The Epilepsy Society in the UK and Institut La Teppe in France. The Epilepsy Society: launched in 1892 by a group of London philanthropists and doctors, the Society looks after people with epilepsy and supports research in this field. Their vision is to be at the forefront of research and medicine, ensuring future generations are free from the life-changing effects of epilepsy. epilepsysociety.org.uk Institut La Teppe: this pioneering mental health institution has been part of the Hermitage landscape since 1856. It offers both a residential and day-care centre for patients and provides a research and innovation laboratory in neurology and psychiatry. teppe.org

Duty Status: Duty paid
Packaging: Original Wooden Case
Wine colour: Red
Wine type: Still
Country / Region: France, Rhone