Maison Chapoutier is without doubt one of the most prestigious names in the Rhône producing some of the finest Hermitage. The domain converted its 350 hectares of vines to biodynamic viticulture, making it the largest vineyard to adopt this method of cultivation. It has held certification since 1999. The Chapoutier savoir faire has spread to other vineyards in other winemaking regions: Provence, Beaujolais, Roussillon, Champagne, Alsace, Portugal but also Australia. In 1879, Polydor Chapoutier bought a few hectares of vines and started a negociant business. Seven generations have succeeded him, and Michel Chapoutier is currently at the helm. Since 1996, all the labels have been transcribed in braille. Chapoutier is often one of the last to harvest to ensure that grapes reach optimal maturity.

Well known for its Jurassic version, this vin de paille or straw wine has also reached acclaim in the Rhône Valley. Naturally, it is in the Hermitage vineyard where we find the roots and the know-how to make it. To re-activate this tradition, since 1990 Michel Chapoutier has decided to dedicate a portion of the hermitage blanc crop to passerillage or raisining on straw bedding. After fermentation, the alcohol content is around 15°C, and the wine has a residual sugar content of 105g / l. Bottling is done after 24 months' ageing, which gives it great ageing potential. Aromas of candied fruit and honey abound and there is exceptional length on the palate. It is interesting to know that a pièce of straw wine requires three times more grapes than a classic Hermitage (1 tonne as compared to 300 kilos!).