M. Chapoutier : Le Méal 2012

The power and refinement of a great white wine from the Rhône Valley

The estate

Established since 1808 in Tain-L'Hermitage, M. Chapoutier is an elite reference among fine Rhône Valley wines today.

Winemaker and wine merchant, Michel Chapoutier has successfully brought this family-owned business to the very top. The wines by Maison Chapoutier are renowned by the finest connoisseurs from all around the world for their refinement and high quality. A man of many talents, Michel Chapoutier holds the world record for 100/100 scores awarded by the American critic, Robert Parker. Mathilde, Michel Chapoutier's daughter, has taken over the running of this iconic house, which has over 350 hectares of vineyards in the most prestigious appellations of the northern and southern Rhône Valley region.

The vineyard

This plot-selection Ermitage Le Méal by M. Chapoutier is made from grapes that stem from the eponymous hillside. This terroir is made up of very old fluvio-glacial alluvium and pebbles that lend their heat to the soil. These old vines, over 50 years old, are renowned for their low yields, which produce high-quality wines.

Vinification and ageing

Hand-picked when fully ripe. Pressing followed by cold settling of the must for approximately 24 to 48 hours. Around 50% of the wine is made in demi-muids and 50% in vats. This wine is aged for 10 to 12 months, with regular stirring of the lees.

The blend

M. Chapoutier's Le Méal 2012 is a 100% Marsanne.

M. Chapoutier’s Le Méal 2012: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

This sunny 2012 vintage is the perfect expression of the Rhône terroirs that give rise to fine white wines. Ample, refined and powerful, the mouth seduces with its rich aromatic palette. Notes of tomato leaf and almond milk mingle with subtle honeyed, truffled and exotic aromas.

Cellaring

M. Chapoutier's Le Méal 2012 can be cellared for several decades to express its full aromatic range.