M. Chapoutier : Le Méal 2006

A velvety and intense Ermitage red wine

The estate

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

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 northern and southern Rhône Valley.

The vineyard

Le Méal 2006 from M. Chapoutier is an Ermitage wine produced from a plot selection and developed from grapes grown on the eponymous hillside. The soil of these high terraces is made up of rolled pebbes and clays. These old vines on average 50-plus years old, are renowned for their low yields, giving great quality wines.

Winemaking and ageing

Harvested by hand at full ripeness. The grapes were 100% destemmed and vinified in small cement vats. Maceration at high temperature in order to favour optimal extraction and obtain supple and silky tannins, the guarantee of an important ageing potential. This plot selection was made exclusively from free-run wine. The wine was aged for 16 to 18 months in new barrels and those of one or two wines.

Blend

Syrah (100%).

Characteristics and tasting tips for Méal 2006 from M. Chapoutier

Tasting

Colour
The wine is of an intense garnet colour, embellished with purple highlights.

Nose
The nose has fruity and smoky scents.

Palate
The palate unveils powerful and velvety tannins as well as notes of blackberry jam.

Food and wine pairing

This Rhône Valley wine pairs perfectly with wild boar terrine, a piece of beef or a cheese like Livarot.