2020 M. Chapoutier "Le Méal" Ermitage (Pre-Arrival)
SKU #1549041
98-100 points
Jeb Dunnuck
A ripe, sexy, opulent Hermitage, the 2020 Ermitage Le Méal has lots of black raspberry, violet, spring flower, and cured meat-like aromatics. It shows its Méal origin on the palate, where it’s full-bodied, has a creamy, velvety, opulent mouthfeel, ultra-fine tannins, and one gorgeous finish. It’s certainly the most extroverted in the lineup, but it still brings plenty of focus, freshness, and structure.
(2/2022)
95-97 points
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Marked by scents of blueberries, purple raspberries, black cherries and crushed stone, Chapoutier's 2020 Ermitage le Méal is a compelling wine. Full-bodied, silky and elegant, it lacks the exaggerated concentration of the 2019 vintage but boasts a degree of elegance that makes it appealing sip after sip. It's remarkably drinkable for such a young wine, yet it will undoubtedly age well for up to two decades. (JC)
(1/2022)
95 points
Decanter
Explosive ripe blackberries melded with spicy oak. Very smooth and generous, shot through with a thick weave of sweet, ripe tannins. The alcohol is on the high side, but this has very impressive concentration and tannic weight - coupled with balanced acidity this promises to age with interest. I love the sweet, soft tannins, but this will take a long time to come round and show fully display its terroir. (MW)
(6/2021)