2022 · La Bernardine

M. Chapoutier is a large, historic family-owned négociant and importer founded in 1808 and headquartered in Tain-l’Hermitage. It has grown to produce over 7 million bottles annually and controls about 25% of the Hermitage appellation, with 389 hectares of organic and biodynamic vineyards in the Rhône and holdings in Australia, Portugal, and Roussillon. Under Michel Chapoutier's leadership since the early 1990s, the estate converted fully to biodynamic viticulture, recognized as Europe's largest biodynamic producer. Its philosophy centers on humility, respect for nature, and the family motto "Fac et spera" (do and hope), focusing on terroir expression. The house is also noted for pioneering Braille-labeled wines since 1996.