Similar in style to the hedonistically-styled Cuvee de l’Orée (especially when compared to the structured, mineral-laced l’Ermite), the 2014 Ermitage le Méal Blanc (aged in 10% new demi-muids) offers layers of celery seed, brioche, caramelized pineapple and citrus oil on the nose. Thick, rich, voluptuous and full bodied with a massive finish, drink this sensational white anytime over the coming two to three decades.
97 points, Wine Advocate (December 2015)
Similar in style to the hedonistically-styled Cuvee de l’Orée (especially when compared to the structured, mineral-laced l’Ermite), the 2014 Ermitage le Méal Blanc (aged in 10% new demi-muids) offers layers of celery seed, brioche, caramelized pineapple and citrus oil on the nose. Thick, rich, voluptuous and full bodied with a massive finish, drink this sensational white anytime over the coming two to three decades.
97 points, Wine Advocate (December 2015)
A rich, enticing style, with creamed pear, melon and apple fruit flavors. Lightly toasted hazelnut and matchstick hints weave through the finish, with a mirabelle plum note lingering longest.
95 points, Wine Spectator (May 2017)
Pale gold. Vibrant, minerally and sharply focused on the highly perfumed nose, displaying an array of ripe citrus and orchard fruit aromas and deeper fig and honey qualities. Sappy and incisive on the palate; a vibrant mineral quality gives lift to the flavors of bitter pear skin, tangerine and honeysuckle. Deftly melds power and finesse, the mineral and floral component dominating the very long, seamless finish.
(93-95) points, Vinous (March 2016)
M.Chapoutier
M. Chapoutier is a renowned producer in the northern Rhône valley, producing a diverse array of benchmark wines from the region’s most prestigious appellations. The Chapoutier family has roots in the region dating from 1808; however it is under the current leadership of winemaker Michel Chapoutier that quality at the estate has soared. Since taking over the family firm, Michel Chapoutier has overseen the dramatic transformation of the estate’s vineyards to biodynamic practices. Winemaking philosophy has also changed significantly with a more sensitive oak regime now in place to allow the wine’s character to show through. The wines are also bottled unfined and unfiltered. M.Chapoutier is famous both for the "téte de cuvées" wines from old vine vineyards including La Mordorée and Hermitage La Pavillon and its range of rare Sélections Parcellaires; celebrated single-vineyard wines from the Northern Rhone’s most site, the Hill of Hermitage.
