M. Chapoutier : Le Méal 2015

Tasting characteristics and serving suggestions for the Le Méal 2015 by M. Chapoutier

Tasting

Appearance
The bright appearance displays an enticing golden-yellow hue.

Nose
The nose reveals intense aromatics, combining lovely minerality with delicate notes of celery and perfectly integrated oak.

Palate
Broad and velvety, the palate delicately expresses an exotic dimension with great freshness, lifted by a touch of toasted almonds.

The creaminess and precision of a white Ermitage signed by M. Chapoutier

The estate

Established since 1808 in Tain-L’Hermitage, M. Chapoutier has established itself today as one of the leading references for wines from the Rhône Valley.

Both winegrower and négociant, Michel Chapoutier has, over the vintages, raised this family house to the highest level. The wines of Maison Chapoutier are praised for their elegance and outstanding quality by connoisseurs around the world. A figure of many talents, Michel Chapoutier holds the world record for 100/100 scores awarded by American critic Robert Parker. Mathilde, Michel Chapoutier’s daughter, has taken over the direction of this emblematic house, which oversees a vineyard of more than 350 hectares covering the most prestigious appellations of the Northern and Southern Rhône Valley.

The vineyard

Le Méal Blanc by M. Chapoutier is an Ermitage produced from grapes grown on the eponymous hillside. Averaging over 50 years old, the vines take root in fluvioglacial alluvium rich in pebbles. These old vines, renowned for their low yields, give rise to Rhône Valley wines of great quality.

Winemaking and aging

Hand harvesting at perfect ripeness. Pressing followed by cold settling of the must for about 24 to 48 hours. Vinification is carried out in equal parts, around 50% in demi-muids and 50% in vats. The aging of this Ermitage wine, for 10 to 12 months, is accompanied by regular bâtonnage.

Blend

Marsanne (100%).