M. Chapoutier : Le Méal 2018

The balance and indulgence of a white Ermitage wine

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.

Vine grower and merchant, Michel Chapoutier has managed over the vintages to lead this family business to the top. The wines of Maison Chapoutier 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 2018 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 2018 cuvée from M. Chapoutier

Tasting

Notes of reduction characteristic of Ermitage wines in their youth give way to a precise, mineral and tense palate. Balanced and persistent, the palate is seduced by its notes of celery, matchstick tips and toasted sesame.