Hermitage Ermitage Le Méal Chapoutier 1996

Lot presentation

Hermitage Ermitage Le Méal Chapoutier 1996

The wine

Le Méal is made exclusively on the hillside with the same name, with high terraces of rolled pebbles and clay. It is a hermitage from old Syrah vines which are about 60 years old. Vinification takes place in a small concrete vat with very long maceration and only free run wine is used for this single parcel cuvée. It is aged in new or 1-year old barrels for between 14 and 18 months and the wine is clarified naturally. The deep garnet red hue has violet tints when young. The nose evokes ripe fruit and roasted notes, evolving into coffee and the cigar notes. The powerful, velvety tannins reveal aromas of blackberry jam with a smoky finish. Very good ageing potential.

About the Producer Chapoutier

Maison Chapoutier is without doubt one of the most prestigious names in the Rhône producing some of the finest Hermitage. The domain converted its 300 hectares of vines to biodynamic viticulture, making it the largest vineyard to adopt this method of cultivation. It has held certification since 1999. Chapoutier is often one of the last estates to harvest its grapes so that they are at optimal ripeness.The Chapoutier savoir faire has spread to other vineyards in other winemaking regions: Provence, Beaujolais, Roussillon, Champagne, Alsace, Portugal but also South Australia.
This family's winemaking journey started way back in 1806 but 1879 was a turning point when Polydor Chapoutier bought a few hectares of vines and started a negociant business. Seven generations have succeeded him, and Michel Chapoutier is currently at the helm, supported by his children Mathilde and Maxime. Together, they continue the family's story, all while highlighting Rhône's great terroirs.