The 2015 M. Chapoutier Crozes-Hermitage Les Varonniers is a premium red wine from the Northern Rhône Valley, France. It comes from a small 2.55-hectare west-facing parcel on granite soils similar to those of the Hermitage hill (notably akin to the Bessards lieu-dit), blended with old-vine Syrah from Les Meysonniers. This gives it a more structured, intense, and “Hermitage-like” character than typical Crozes-Hermitage wines. Production is limited (around 500 cases). It is biodynamically farmed.
Tasting Notes (Producer/Typical)
- Appearance: Deep garnet red.
- Nose: Very ripe red and black fruits (blackcurrant, raspberry, blueberries), liquorice, florals, with complex notes like vanilla, spices, or savory elements (e.g., embers, leather) in mature bottles.
- Palate: Full-bodied, ample, solid, and rich with bold dark fruit layers (cassis, mulberries, blackberry confiture), vanilla, jam, and good structure. Silky texture with Syrah typicity.
Critics Reviews & Scores
- Jeb Dunnuck (Wine Advocate): 99 points — “Burning embers, ozone, saddle leather, beef blood and a liqueur of rocks bouquet… full-bodied, silky, awesome… undoubtedly the greatest vintage ever for this cuvée.” Drink 2020–2030+.
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Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate: 93 points — Full-bodied and rich, with bold layers of cassis, etc.; approachable yet structured
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Vinous (Josh Raynolds): 93 points.
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Other notes often highlight it as intense, youthfully tight with dark fruit and spice, evolving beautifully. Average critic score around 92–94+ across sources.
Food Pairings Classic matches for full-bodied Northern Rhône Syrah include:
- Roasted or grilled red meats (lamb, beef, prime rib).
- Game, wild boar, duck.
- Grilled vegetables, mushrooms, or casseroles.
- Charcuterie, sausages, or cooked pork.
- Cheeses (especially aged or strong varieties). It pairs well with bold, Savory, or smoky dishes and BBQ.
Drink Window
- Generally, 2020–2030+ (or longer with good storage), with many noting it benefits from 4–5+ years of cellaring post-release for peak integration. It is drinking well now (2026) but has excellent aging potential due to its structure and vintage quality.
