M. Chapoutier - Ermitage - Le Méal - Blanc - 2000

Wine:

With a marvelous purity, the 2000 white Ermitage Le Méal impresses with its unctuousness and its extraordinary amplitude. The nose, magnificent in its precision, brings to light wonderful aromas of almond and honeysuckle, as well as spices and ripe fruit. On the palate, citrus fruits mingle with subtle honeyed nuances and quince in a structure of great breadth, voluptuous and concentrated. This wine is the ultimate expression of the Hermitage terroir, with absolute longevity. Rated 98/100 by Parker.

Vinification:

Hand harvested at very good maturity, after pressing of whole grapes, the must is cold settled for 24 hours. About 50% is vinified in new barrels and 50% ferments in vats. Maturation in barrels, monitored by frequent tastings. Organoleptic criteria determine the length of time in wood and the date of bottling.

Color:

Brilliant, golden yellow color.

Nose:

Aromas of almond, honeysuckle, dried apricot, mango, evolving on honeyed, spicy and toasted notes.

Palate:

Ample, unctuous, and perfectly balanced, the acidity brings an incredible freshness, the fatness offering a very long finish, nicely brioche notes, citrus, honey and quince.

Temperature:

Decant before serving between 14 and 16°C.

Food and wine pairing:

Foie gras, lobster, lobster with white butter, lamprey with bordelaise sauce, veal maringo, Saint-Félicien with truffles.

Cellar aging:

From now until 2025.

Renowned winemaker, at the head of one of the most esteemed estates of the Rhone Valley region, Michel Chapoutier presides over a phenomenal collection of Crus. His talent as a winemaker and his unique knowledge of the vineyard enables him to find the best terroirs for his wines. Of amazing consistency throughout each vintage, his wines are beautiful representations of their appellations.