‘De L’Orée’ is one of Michel Chapoutier’s most celebrated single-vineyard Hermitage Blancs, produced from 100% Marsanne. The fruit comes from Les Murets, a parcel of 60–70-year-old vines on the western side of the Hermitage hill, rooted in pebbly, clay-limestone soils that give both power and finesse.
Vinified and aged in a mix of oak (around one-third new) and stainless steel, the wine is known for its textural richness and longevity. Aromatically, it layers honey, acacia, quince, and stone fruit with nutty and mineral notes that evolve with age. On the palate, it shows the hallmark weight and oily texture of old-vine Marsanne, balanced by freshness and a saline finish.
Consistently highly rated, ‘De L’Orée’ is regarded as a benchmark for white Hermitage, with the ability to age gracefully for decades—often developing truffle, lanolin, and waxy complexity over time.
M. Chapoutier 'De L'Orée' Hermitage Blanc 2015
Founded in 1808 in Tain-l’Hermitage, M. Chapoutier is one of the Rhône Valley’s most influential estates, led since 1990 by Michel Chapoutier. The domaine was an early pioneer of biodynamic viticulture in the region and today farms more than 350 hectares across the Rhône and beyond.
Chapoutier is especially renowned for its role in Hermitage, producing some of the appellation’s most iconic single-vineyard wines. These include ‘Le Pavillon’ (Syrah from 100-year-old vines on granite soils), ‘L’Ermite’, ‘Le Méal’, and the white ‘De L’Orée’ (Marsanne from old vines in Les Murets). The reds show Hermitage’s signature depth and longevity, while the whites, made predominantly from Marsanne, are among the Rhône’s most age-worthy and complex.
Chapoutier’s commitment to expressing site and terroir has cemented its reputation as a benchmark producer in Hermitage and the wider Rhône Valley.
Hermitage, located in France's northern Rhône Valley, is one of the region's most esteemed appellations, renowned for its powerful and complex wines. The steep, terraced vineyards on the south-facing slopes of the Hermitage hill are planted in diverse soils, including granite, loess, and alluvial deposits, contributing to the appellation's unique character. Red wines, primarily made from Syrah, are celebrated for their intensity, longevity, and flavors of dark fruit, spice, and earth.
Hermitage is equally famous for its exceptional white wines, crafted from Marsanne and Roussanne. These whites are known for their richness, complexity, and ability to age gracefully, often developing honeyed and nutty notes with time. With a long history of winemaking dating back to ancient times, Hermitage represents the pinnacle of Rhône Valley viticulture, producing both red and white wines that are highly sought after for their elegance and depth.
