# Chapitre Rouge (2023)

- **Producer:** Vignerons Propriétés Associés
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Grenache, Syrah, Carignan, Mourvèdre
- **Region:** Rhône, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.0%
- **Average price:** €11
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 15–17 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** cherry, plum, raspberry, strawberry, black pepper, herbaceous, smoke, toast

## About this wine

Chapitre Rouge is an expressive and highly accessible red wine crafted by Vignerons Propriétés Associés (VPA), a prominent cooperative group based in the Southern Rhône Valley. Established in 1992, VPA manages vineyards surrounding the historic Roman city of Nîmes. The cooperative is deeply committed to social and environmental sustainability, operating under the 'Wines for Earthlings' philosophy. Through their innovative investment cooperative, they help young winemakers access land, preserving the region's rich viticultural heritage. This cuvée is designed to offer immediate drinking pleasure, capturing the authentic, sun-drenched spirit of the Côtes du Rhône.

## Interesting facts

- Produced by a cooperative that allows private citizens to buy vineyard shares to help young winemakers get started.
- Sourced from vineyards certified HVE 3, ensuring high standards of biodiversity and environmental conservation.
- Aged entirely in concrete and stainless steel to maintain pure, unadulterated fruit expression without oak influence.

## Food pairing

The medium body, moderate acidity, and soft, well-integrated tannins of this Côtes du Rhône blend make it an exceptionally versatile partner for savory, herb-infused dishes. The wine's ripe red fruit and subtle garrigue notes beautifully complement roasted or grilled meats, particularly lamb and beef, while its smooth structure balances the rich textures of classic French cheeses and charcuterie.

## Wine making process

The grapes for Chapitre Rouge are sourced from HVE 3-certified vineyards characterized by limestone and ancient alluvial soils. Harvested at peak phenolic ripeness, the grapes are fully destemmed to ensure smooth tannins. Fermentation and maceration take place in temperature-controlled concrete or stainless steel vats, allowing for a gentle extraction of color, fruit character, and structure. To preserve the vibrant, youthful fruit profile and the pure expression of the Southern Rhône terroir, the wine is aged entirely in inert vessels, completely bypassing oak contact.