Chapoutier's 2008s, and charisma

Michel Chapoutier is a journalist's dream because he loves to perform via relatively outrageous pronouncements. He came to London recently to present the first showing of his Rhône Sélections Parcellaires 2008s. He explained it thus: 'The first showing of the vintage is always in London – some people [US importer Paterno perhaps?] are cross but there are lots of critics here' was his typically ebullient explanation for this very early look at his top wines from last year. But there was no shortage of provocative and fascinating comment on his other areas of operation, Roussillon, Portugal and Australia.

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