M. Chapoutier : Le Méal 2011

M. Chapoutier producers a structured and aromatic Ermitage wine

The estate

Founded in 1808 in Tain-L’Hermitage, the Maison M. Chapoutier today embodies the elite of the biggest names in Rhône Valley wine.

Winegrower and merchant, Michel Chapoutier has been able to raise his family business, through the vintages, to the very top. The wines of the Chapoutier house are renowned for their refinement and high quality by the world’s best-regarded connaisseurs. Michel Chapoutier, a man of many talents, holds the world record for 100/100 scores awarded by the American critic Robert Parker. Mathilde, Michel Chapoutier’s daughter, carries the flame for this iconic house, watching over an estate of more than 350 hectares across the most prestigious appellations of the northern and southern Rhône Valley.

The vineyard

Le Meal 2011 is an Ermitage wine that comes from 50-year-old vines planted on high terraces of rounded pebbles and clay.

The wine

L’Ermitage Le Méal 2011 from the Maison M. Chapoutier takes its name from the plot where it comes from, in the hamlet Le Méal. This plot-based Rhône Valley wine was developed exclusively with grapes from the Le Méal hillside.

Winemaking and ageing

The grapes were given a rigorous first selection at the harvest done by hand, then carefully destemmed. Vinification took place in a small cement vat. Exclusive use of free-run wine. Ageing in new casks and one to two-wine casks over 16 to 18 months.

Blend

Syrah (100%)

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

Tasting

Colour
The wine is of a garnet red colour, set off by light purple highlights.

Nose
The nose gives scents of strawberry and raspberry as well as toasted notes embellished with touches of graphite.

Palate
The palate is complex, developing a powerful tannic and velvety structure along with a wonderful elongation.

Food and wine pairing

This Rhône Valley wine goes perfectly with wild boar terrine, prime rib of beef or cheese (livarot).