M. Chapoutier : Le Méal 2011

M. Chapoutier presents a structured and aromatic Ermitage wine

The property

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

Vinegrower 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

Le Méal 2011 is an Ermitage wine made from old vines about fifty years old, planted on high terraces of rolled pebbles and clays.

The wine

The Ermitage Le Méal 2011 from Maison M. Chapoutier bears the name of the plot where it was born, the place called "Le Méal". A single-vineyard cuvée, this Rhône Valley wine is made exclusively with grapes from the Méal hillside.

Vinification and aging

The grapes undergo a first rigorous sorting during the hand harvest and are then carefully destemmed. Vinification takes place in small cement vats. Exclusive use of free-run wine. Aging in new barrels and barrels of one to two wines for 16 to 18 months.

Blend

Syrah (100%)

Characteristics and tasting advice for Le Méal 2011 from M. Chapoutier

Tasting

Color
The color is a deep garnet red with slight violet reflections.

Nose
The nose offers fragrances of strawberry and raspberry as well as toasted notes enhanced with touches of graphite.

Palate
Complex, the palate develops a powerful and velvety tannic structure as well as a beautiful length.

Food and wine pairings

This Rhône Valley wine pairs perfectly with a wild boar terrine, a rib of beef or even cheese (livarot).