M. Chapoutier Hermitage Le Meal 2012

M. Chapoutier Hermitage Le Meal 2012

 

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M. Chapoutier
Hermitage Le Meal 2012
  • Vintage : 2012
  • Country : France
  • Region : Northern Rhône
  • Subregion : Hermitage
  • Type : Red
  • Style : Deep Full Bodied
  • Format : 75cl
  • Alcohol : 14°
  • Grappes : 100% Syrah

M. Chapoutier Hermitage Le Méal Rouge is an extraordinary single-vineyard Syrah, showcasing the power, elegance, and ageing potential of Hermitage’s iconic terroir.

Experts Score Vintage
RP Robert Parker 98 2012
WS Wine Spectator 96 2012
VN Vinous (Antonio Galloni) 95 2012
More information on wine critics and ratings

Region and Vineyards

The Le Méal vineyard is located on the hillside of Hermitage, renowned for its high terraces composed of rolled pebbles and clay. These unique soils retain heat during the day and radiate it at night, aiding in the optimal ripening of the Syrah grapes.

The vines, averaging 50 years of age, are cultivated biodynamically, ensuring a pure expression of this exceptional terroir. Hermitage benefits from a continental climate with warm, sunny days and cool nights, enhancing the wine’s balance and aromatic intensity.

Winemaking

The grapes are hand-harvested at peak maturity to capture their full potential. The entire harvest is 100% destemmed and fermented in a small cement vat, ensuring precise temperature control.

The high-temperature maceration process facilitates an optimal extraction of tannins, yielding a wine with velvety yet powerful structure suitable for long-term ageing. Only the free-run juice is used for this single-vineyard selection.

The wine is aged for 14 to 18 months in 100% oak barrels, with a mix of new and one-year-old casks, to integrate flavors and develop complexity. The wine undergoes natural clarification, preserving its purity and structure.

Tasting Notes

  • Color: Deep garnet red with youthful purple highlights.
  • Aroma: Intense notes of ripe fruits and smoky nuances, showcasing the terroir’s depth.
  • Palate: Powerful yet velvety tannins with flavors of blackberry jam, and a smooth, elegant finish.
  • Ageing Potential: The wine can age beautifully for 30 to 60 years, and exceptional vintages can last up to 75 years.

Did you know?

The Méal hillside is one of Hermitage’s most celebrated parcels, prized for its ability to produce wines of immense depth and longevity. This biodynamic wine reflects both the ancient terroir and M. Chapoutier’s commitment to sustainable viticulture.

Wine Pairing Ideas

  • Braised Beef Short Ribs with Blackberry Sauce: The wine’s ripe fruit and velvety tannins complement the richness of the dish.
  • Grilled Venison with Rosemary and Garlic: The gamey flavors harmonize with the wine’s smoky complexity.
  • Aged Comté or Beaufort Cheese: The nutty and savory notes of these cheeses pair beautifully with the wine’s robust character.
  • Dark Chocolate Tart with Cassis Reduction: The wine’s blackberry jam flavors enhance the tart’s richness and depth.

History of M. Chapoutier

The history of M. Chapoutier began in 1808, when it was founded as a modest family estate focused on Rhône Valley wines. It grew steadily in prominence, but the turning point came in 1990 with the arrival of Michel Chapoutier, whose bold vision and innovative spirit transformed the estate into an internationally acclaimed name in winemaking.

Michel, renowned for his meticulous attention to detail, implemented biodynamic farming practices as early as 1991, making Chapoutier a pioneer in sustainable viticulture. His philosophy emphasized allowing the vines to express their natural characteristics, using organic and biodynamic principles to enhance soil vitality and promote biodiversity.

In addition to championing terroir-focused winemaking, Michel prioritized inclusivity. In 1996, M. Chapoutier became the first French winery to use Braille on its labels, a groundbreaking initiative inspired by Michel’s close friendship with a blind oenologist. This gesture reflected the estate’s commitment to making fine wine accessible to all.

Under Michel’s leadership, the estate has expanded its influence beyond the Rhône Valley, acquiring vineyards in Roussillon, Alsace, Australia, and Spain. Each new project honors Chapoutier’s philosophy of showcasing the authentic identity of each terroir. Michel also introduced the concept of Sélections Parcellaires, single-vineyard wines that epitomize the unique characteristics of the plots from which they are sourced.

Today, M. Chapoutier stands as a symbol of tradition and innovation, with a legacy built on respect for nature, a passion for terroir, and a commitment to crafting wines that resonate with authenticity and elegance.

Region and Vineyards

M. Chapoutier’s origins and heart remain in the Rhône Valley, home to some of France’s most iconic appellations:

  • Hermitage: Known for its legendary terroirs such as Le Méal, L’Ermite, and Le Pavillon, producing wines of unmatched depth and elegance.
  • Côte-Rôtie: A region of steep slopes and schist soils, yielding aromatic and structured Syrah.
  • Châteauneuf-du-Pape: Famous for its diverse soils, including galets roulés, and complex blends of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre.
  • Crozes-Hermitage and Saint-Joseph: Offering fresh and versatile wines that highlight the Rhône’s diversity.

The estate encompasses 1,242 hectares, with 427 hectares certified biodynamic, ensuring sustainable viticulture and authentic expressions of the land. Beyond the Rhône, Chapoutier has extended its vision to regions such as Bila-Haut in Roussillon, Schieferkopf in Alsace, and the Pyrenees in Australia.

Wine Range of M. Chapoutier

M. Chapoutier’s portfolio is diverse and comprehensive, ranging from everyday wines to ultra-premium expressions:

  • Sélections Parcellaires: The pinnacle of Chapoutier’s production, these ultra-premium wines like Le Pavillon (Hermitage) and L’Ermite (Hermitage) are made in small quantities from the estate’s best plots.
  • Prestige Wines: Iconic appellation wines from regions like Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Côte-Rôtie, and Saint-Joseph, showcasing Rhône Valley tradition.
  • Tradition Range: Approachable yet expressive wines, including organic labels, that reflect the diversity of the Rhône.
  • International Projects: Wines from Roussillon, Alsace, Portugal, Australia, and Spain, highlighting Chapoutier’s expertise across the globe.
  • Specialty Wines and Spirits: Including dessert wines like Banyuls and an artisanal gin, expanding Chapoutier’s portfolio beyond traditional offerings.

Did you know?

In 1996, M. Chapoutier became the first French winery to include Braille on its labels, ensuring accessibility for visually impaired wine lovers and setting a precedent for inclusivity in the wine industry.

Robert Parker (RP) : 98 Points (2012)
Showing similar to last year, the 2012 Ermitage le Meal is a blockbuster that's about as voluptuous and sexy as Hermitage gets. Loaded with cassis, black raspberry, leather, dried violets and wild herbs, this beauty is full-bodied, has tons of sweet tannin and brilliant purity of fruit. Given its wealth of material, low acidity and incredible texture, it should drink well all of its life. (JD)

Wine Spectator (WS) : 96 Points (2012)
A nice bass line plays here, featuring dark currant, fig and blackberry confiture notes that have melded already with a broad swath of warm charcoal and ganache. Impressive, loamy grip holds the finish, though this will needs a few years to stretch out fully. Best from 2018 through 2030. 40 cases imported. (JM)

Vinous (Antonio Galloni) (VN) : 95 Points (2012)
Dark purple. A highly perfumed, complex bouquet evokes ripe cherry and raspberry, along with complicating notes of candied flowers, incense and Indian spices. Sappy and expressive, with intense black raspberry and floral pastille flavors underscored by juicy acidity. Shows superb focus and lift on the finish, which lingers with outstanding tenacity; suave, supple tannins barely peak through the wine's vibrant fruit. (JR)

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