Ermitage Rouge ‘Le Méal’, M Chapoutier, Hermitage, Northern Rhone, France, 2014  

2.2ha, 100% Syrah

This wine is produced with grapes coming from Le Méal hillside (150-200 metres altitude). It takes its name from the old French word meaning “the best”. This slope is composed of high terraces of shingles and clay. Vines are over 50 years old. The wine is characterised by a supple character, a fine balance and intense fruit aromas. Yields are again exceptionally low, at around 20 hl/ha. Le Méal produces wines with great perfume, richness and amazing ageing potential. The nose exhibits a ripe fruit character, with rich, stewed blackberries and powerful but velvety tannins on the palate.

"The sweetly fruited, downright sexy 2014 Ermitage le Meal offers plenty of raspberry jam, toasted bread and floral notes in a ripe, expansive, mouth-filling style. Like all the wines here, the tannin quality is incredible. You can drink this today with ample pleasure, but it will keep for two decades. " 95/100 Jeb Dunnuck www.roberparker.com