2013 - Hermitage Le Meal Rouge, M. Chapoutier

A classic expression of the gorgeous, sunbaked vineyard, the 2013 Ermitage le Méal is as ripe, sexy and voluptuous as they come in the vintage. Black raspberries, jammy blackberries, licorice, toasted spice and crushed flowers are just some of the nuances in the bouquet. Full-bodied, mouth-filling with ripe tannin, plenty of mid-palate density (which can be lacking in some wines in the vintage) and with a great finish, it has the balance and texture to dish out pleasure today, but will have 25 or more years of overall longevity.

Vivid purple. Deep-pitched, smoke- and spice-accented aromas of blueberry and cherry compote, violet and incense take on a hint of olive. Lush and expansive, offering palate-staining black and blue fruit liqueur and spicecake flavors sharpened by a bright mineral element. Becomes sweeter and deeper with air and finishes extremely long, with velvety tannins and lingering spiciness.

2.2 ha, 100% Syrah. This wine is produced with grapes coming from Le Méal hillside (150-200 metres altitude). This slope is composed of high terraces of shingles and clay. Vines are over 50 years old. Yields are again exceptionally low, at around 20 hl/ha. 13.2% but in last 10 years almost 14.5%. A genuine clos (walled vineyard) – most unusual. Broad and quite rich. Very fine tannins are there in profusion. Only a medium charge of fruit. MC says this was always known as a blackberry wine. Very fresh and lively – punchy. Very dry finish. (JR)