2019 M. Chapoutier Ermitage Le Meal Blanc [Cracked Wax Capsule]

Ratings & Tasting Notes:

100 points — Jeb Dunnuck

The richest and most fruit-driven of Chapoutier’s three single-vineyard white Hermitages, from a warmer site. Quince, honeyed currants, acacia flowers, spice and orange marmalade, fuller and more unctuous than L’Ermite yet beautifully balanced. Best after 2 to 4 years, it should keep for 30 or more. “Another magical Hermitage from Chapoutier that does everything right.”

96 points — Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate

Remarkable complexity, from pencil shavings and crushed stone to ripe, honeyed pear, melon and citrus, with salty, herbal hints of celery seed and fennel. Medium to full-bodied and mouth-coating yet fresh, ending on citrus pith and salted licorice.

Cult Wines International Notes:

Maison M. Chapoutier has been rooted in Tain-l’Hermitage since 1808 and is one of the great names of the Rhône Valley. Since taking the helm in 1990, Michel Chapoutier has converted the family’s vineyards to biodynamic farming and created the Sélections Parcellaires, single-parcel wines that express individual sites on the hill of Hermitage with remarkable precision. The house was also a pioneer of Braille on its labels.

Le Méal is a warm, sun-drenched lieu-dit on the hill of Hermitage, and its white is made from 100% Marsanne. The 2019, from a hot, concentrated vintage in the northern Rhône, is the richest and most opulent of Chapoutier’s single-vineyard whites, with quince, honeyed currants, acacia, ripe pear, orange marmalade and a salty, mineral edge. Jeb Dunnuck awarded a perfect 100 points and Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate 96. Built to evolve for three decades or more, it is one of the great white wines of France.

Bottle Size:

750 mL

Storage History:

Always stored on its side in a climate-controlled cellar.

Condition:

The wax capsule top is visibly cracked, as shown in the photos; otherwise excellent condition. Discounted!

Please note: The condition of the bottle you will receive is accurately reflected by the one shown in the images.