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SKU 1042192
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Le Méal is said to be the warmest terroir on the Hermitage hill, and thus it is no surprise that this bottling fared the best in the challenging 2004 vintage. Flamboyant, creamy waves of raspberry fruit flood the palate, bringing hints of meat, smoke and pepper along for the ride and developing lovely soft tannins on the caressing finish. Approachable now, but should age well through 2020.
Known as Syrah in most countries around the world, and Shiraz in Australia and certain other regions of the New World, this grape varietal has proven over the centuries to be one of the most powerful and flavorful red wine grapes there is. It is now one of the planet's most widely grown grapes, and is a favorite with wineries as a result of its robustness and versatility. It isn't easy to identify many characteristics of this particular varietal, due to the fact that it is highly versatile and shows significant differences in flavor and character depending on the terroir it is grown in, and the climatic conditions of the region. However, Syrah is most widely associated with full bodied, strong and loud red wines, packed full of fruity and spicy flavors, held in a beautifully deep red liquid.
France, often regarded as the heart of the wine world, boasts a rich history, diverse terroirs, and a captivating variety of grape varietals. From the renowned vineyards of Bordeaux to the picturesque landscapes of Burgundy, France offers a wine lover’s dream journey. Whether you’re new to the world of wine or a seasoned enthusiast looking […]
The Rhone Valley of southern France is a particularly fascinating wine region, with a history that stretches back to at least six hundred BCE, when the ancient Greeks first began cultivating vines there. The region itself is split into two distinct sub-regions, with the northern sub-region being famed for its production of exceptional Syrah, Marsanne, Roussane and Viognier wines, packed full of interesting character and expressing the terroir found there. The southern sub-region is home to an enormous variety of grapes, and produces red, white and rosé wines, and some of the world's most famous and adored blended wines. The continental climate of the region is ideal for growing grapes, and the winds which blow from the Central Massif help temper the heat in the vineyards, leading to very ripe fruits holding plenty of flavor.
Appellation
Hermitage
Hermitage, a revered appellation in the Northern Rhône Valley, France, stands as a viticultural icon synonymous with Syrah greatness. What makes Hermitage unique is its commanding south-facing granite slopes along the Rhône River, bathed in sunlight and sheltered from the mistral winds. This terroir imparts distinct intensity and concentration to the Syrah grapes, resulting in wines of extraordinary depth and longevity.
Hermitage wines are renowned for their complexity, showcasing dark fruit, black pepper, and a profound minerality. The appellation also allows for a small percentage of white grapes—Marsanne and Roussanne—adding elegance and aromatic richness to the whites produced.
Legendary producers like Chapoutier and Jaboulet have contributed to Hermitage's reputation for excellence, highlighting the appellation's dedication to crafting wines that embody the essence of Syrah and the unique terroir of the Rhône Valley. Exploring Hermitage offers a captivating journey into the pinnacle of Northern Rhône winemaking, where tradition, terroir, and the Syrah grape converge to create wines of unparalleled stature.
WE96pts
Wine Enthusiast
Le Méal is said to be the warmest terroir on the Hermitage hill, and thus it is no surprise that this bottling fared the best in the challenging 2004 vintage. Flamboyant, creamy waves of raspberry fruit flood the palate, bringing hints of meat, smoke and pepper along for the ride and developing lovely soft tannins on the caressing finish. Approachable now, but should age well through 2020.
WS93pts
Wine Spectator
Has fine purity for the vintage, with silky-textured red cherry, raspberry and plum fruit flavors intertwined with mineral, light cocoa and floral notes. Gains weight through the lengthy finish. Best from 2008 through 2017. 240 cases made, 85 cases imported.
WA92pts
Wine Advocate
A cool, rainy and difficult year in the Northern Rhone, the 2008 Ermitage le Meal is still beautiful and has a semi-opaque, ruby color, complex notes of spiced meats, saddle leather, incense and sweet red fruits, and medium to full-bodied richness on the palate. Elegant, with fine tannin and excellent purity of fruit, enjoy it anytime over the coming decade.
VM92pts
Vinous Media
Dark red. Intense cherry and smoked meat aromas, with deep espresso and black cardamom accents. Brooding but sweet, with slowly unfolding red and dark berry flavors verging on liqueur-like. "This site got a lot of sun," noted commercial director Morel. Powerful, dense and long on the finish, with a potent lingering blackcurrant quality. Give this some time.
