M. Chapoutier : Le Méal 2008

An intense and fruity Ermitage red 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.

Vinegrower and merchant, Michel Chapoutier has managed over the vintages to lead this family business to the top. The wines of the Maison Chapoutier are recognized for their refinement and high quality by the finest connoisseurs beyond the 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

Parcel selection, Le Méal 2008 from M. Chapoutier is an Ermitage wine made from grapes from the eponymous hillside. The soil of these high terraces is made up of rolled pebbles and clays. These old vines, over 50 years old on average, are known for their low yield, producing high-quality wines.

Vinification and aging

Manual harvest at full maturity. 100% destemmed, the grapes are vinified in small cement vats. Maceration at high temperature to promote optimal extraction and obtain soft and silky tannins, guaranteeing a significant aging potential. This parcel selection is made exclusively from free-run wine. The aging of 16 to 18 months is carried out in new barrels and one or two wines.

Blend

Syrah (100%).

Characteristics and tasting advice for Le Méal 2008 from M. Chapoutier

Tasting

Color
The color reveals an intense garnet hue, enhanced by subtle violet reflections.

Nose
The nose combines notes of ripe fruit with smoky touches.

Palate
Velvety, the palate offers a powerful tannic structure as well as blackberry jam flavors.

Food and wine pairings

This wine from the Rhône Valley pairs wonderfully with a wild boar terrine, a rib of beef or cheeses like livarot.