2014 Petite Ruche, M. Chapoutier, Côtes-du-Rhône, France, Crozes-Hermitage

Humility and desire: these words best describe the Domain M. Chapoutier.

This company cultivates his vines in the greatest respect for natural balance and terroir since 1808. A coat of arms "Fac et spera" (Do and hope) became the family motto. Two verbs to describe all the patience, all the audacity you need to have in this wine business. Patience vis-à-vis the presiding nature. Audacity of the winemaker who observes, selects and supports. The wine is an expression of this alchemy.

Originally, this appellation included only the municipality of Crozes-Hermitage, due to its reputation gained through some selected plots on the AOC Hermitage.

This area has long been occupied mostly by orchards or wasteland. It was only after the extension of the appellation in 1952 that this vineyard was developed.

High terraces of glacial alluvial soil with numerous pebbles.

Harvested at maturity.

This Crozes-Hermitage is fermented in cement tanks with pumping over once a day. It stays in these tanks between 2 and 3 weeks after alcoholic fermentation.

Ripening happens on steel vats. It's bottled in the following autumn to retain a maximum of fruit impressions.