M. Chapoutier Hermitage Le Meal Blanc 2018

M. Chapoutier Hermitage Le Meal Blanc 2018

 

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M. Chapoutier
Hermitage Le Meal Blanc 2018
  • Vintage : 2018
  • Country : France
  • Region : Northern Rhône
  • Subregion : Hermitage
  • Type : White
  • Style : Creamy Full Bodied White
  • Format : 75cl
  • Alcohol : 13,5°
  • Grappes : 100% Marsanne

M. Chapoutier Hermitage Le Méal Blanc is an extraordinary expression of Marsanne, showcasing the richness, complexity, and exceptional ageing potential of the Hermitage appellation.

Experts Score Vintage
RP Robert Parker 99 2018
JD Jeb Dunnuck 98 2018
WS Wine Spectator 97 2018
More information on wine critics and ratings

Region and Vineyards

Le Méal Blanc originates from the Méal hillside, one of Hermitage’s most esteemed parcels. The soils here are composed of ancient fluvioglacial alluvial deposits with abundant pebbles that absorb and radiate heat, fostering optimal ripening conditions for Marsanne.

The vines, aged over 50 years, yield low production but guarantee exceptional quality. The vineyard benefits from Hermitage’s continental climate, characterized by warm, sun-drenched days and cool nights, which enhance the balance and aromatic intensity of the wine.

Winemaking

The grapes are hand-harvested at optimal ripeness, typically achieving a natural potential alcohol level above 14% vol. After a gentle pressing of whole clusters, the must undergoes cold settling for 24 to 48 hours.

Approximately 50% of the volume is vinified in new 600-liter oak barrels (demi-muids), while the remainder is fermented in vats to preserve freshness. The wine is then aged for 10 to 12 months in casks, with regular lees stirring (bâtonnage) to enhance texture and complexity. The duration of ageing is determined through frequent tastings to ensure perfect balance.

Tasting Notes

  • Color: Brilliant golden yellow.
  • Aroma: Intense and mineral-driven, with notes of celery, subtle wood tones, and floral hints.
  • Palate: A rich, full-bodied attack with a creamy texture. The wine displays fine exotic freshness and flavors of roasted almonds, leading to a long and elegant finish.
  • Ageing Potential: This wine can age beautifully for 30 to 60 years, with exceptional vintages lasting up to 75 years.

Did you know?

The Méal hillside, where this wine is sourced, is renowned for its unique terroir and historic significance in the Hermitage region. Certified biodynamic and organic, Le Méal Blanc is a testament to sustainable viticulture and reflects the purity of its exceptional origins.

Wine Pairing Ideas

  • Lobster with Vanilla-Butter Sauce: The wine’s richness and exotic freshness complement the luxurious flavors of lobster.
  • Truffle Risotto: The creamy texture and minerality of the wine pair beautifully with the earthy elegance of truffles.
  • Aged Comté or Gruyère Cheese: The nutty and savory qualities of these cheeses enhance the roasted almond notes in the wine.
  • Poached Turbot with Almond Sauce: The delicate flavors of the fish and the creamy sauce harmonize with the wine’s refined structure.

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) : 99 Points (2018)
Is le Méal the most complex and complete lieu-dit on Hermitage, when considering both red and white wines? The 2018 Ermitage le Méal Blanc certainly makes a case for the white, offering honeyed, complex notes of mixed citrus, pineapple, pear and melon, structural notes of crushed stone, ample weight and richness on the palate and a long, vibrant finish. Just terrific. Range: 97-99

Jeb Dunnuck (JD) : 98 Points (2018)
Another heavenly white from this estate is the 2018 Ermitage Le Méal Blanc, which comes from a warmer, full south-facing vineyard. As with all the top whites here, it's brought up in larger format barrels, with around 25% new. It offers powerful notes of orange blossom, candied tangerines, flower oil, candle wax, and liquid rock-like minerality. These carry to a full-bodied monster of a wine that expands beautifully on the palate, yet still stays pure, balanced, and chiseled. Drink this blockbuster any time over the coming two decades or more.

Wine Spectator (WS) : 97 Points (2018)
Lush and exotic, with creamed mango, peach and papaya notes that are nonetheless fresh in feel, glistening with verbena, chamomile and honeysuckle accents and backed by a mouthwatering swath of salted butter on the finish. Drink now through 2035.

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