Wine quotes - Hermitage - Le Méal, Maison Chapoutier

The Maison Chapoutier cultivates and produces many wines of the Hermitage appellation including White Méal. The grapes used to produce this wine come from the land named "The Méal", located on the hillside of Méal.
The grape (La Marsanne) is over 50 years old and is harvested in small quantities thus ensuring a high quality. The soil is composed of glacio-fluvial alluvium and pebbles, which contribute to warm the ground.
Harvesting is carried out later and by hand. A pressing of whole grapes is conducted initially. The grape must is then decanted cold for 48 hours maximum. Part of the production is vinified in large barrels while the rest is fermented in vats. The vine stock is subsequently operated in barrels whilst being stirred and regular tastings monitor its quality.
The Méal blanc – Ermitage offers a golden-yellow color. Its nose is intense and mineral, with a touch of celery and very delicate wood. It presents an oily round attack in mouth, accompanied by the elegant freshness of roasted almonds.
 
Grape varieties : Marsanne.
Ageing : 30 to 60 years or even 50 to 75 years depending on the vintage.