M. Chapoutier : Le Méal 2016

A full-bodied and creamy white wine from Ermitage

The estate

Established since 1808 in Tain-L’Hermitage, the M. Chapoutier House today embodies the elite of the greatest names in the wines of the Rhône Valley.

Vinegrower and merchant, Michel Chapoutier has managed over the vintages to lead this family business to the top. The wines of the Chapoutier House are recognized for their refinement and high quality by the finest connoisseurs beyond borders. A man of many hats, Michel Chapoutier holds the world record for 100/100 scores awarded by American critic Robert Parker. Mathilde, Michel Chapoutier's daughter, has taken up the torch of this iconic house, overseeing a vineyard of over 350 hectares across the most prestigious appellations of the northern and southern Rhône Valley.

The vineyard

The Méal 2016 white from M. Chapoutier is an Ermitage wine made from grapes from the eponymous hillside. Averaging over 50 years old, the vines are planted on a soil of fluvio-glacial alluvium, made up of numerous pebbles. These old vines are recognized for their low yields, producing high-quality wines.

Vinification and aging

Manual harvest at full maturity. Pressing followed by a settling of the musts in the cold for about 24 to 48 hours. The vinification is carried out approximately 50% in demi-muids and 50% in vats. This wine benefits from an aging of 10 to 12 months, accompanied by regular stirring.

Blend

Marsanne (100%)

Characteristics and tasting advice for the Le Méal 2016 cuvée from M. Chapoutier

Tasting

Color
Bright, the color is a beautiful golden yellow.

Nose
The nose offers intense aromas, combining a beautiful minerality with subtle notes of celery and ideally integrated wood.

Palate
Full-bodied and creamy, the palate subtly reveals an exotic expression of great freshness as well as a touch of roasted almonds.