Based in Tain-l’Hermitage in the northern Rhône Valley, M. Chapoutier is one of the region’s most respected estates, known for biodynamic viticulture and single-vineyard expressions of Hermitage. Le Méal Blanc comes from old Marsanne vines planted on the famous Le Méal hillside, where alluvial soils rich in rolled stones contribute both ripeness and concentration. Fermentation takes place in oak barrels followed by extended ageing on lees to develop depth and texture. The warm 2012 vintage delivered richness balanced by freshness. Compared with L’Orée, Le Méal often shows greater power and structure, combining ripe peach, honey and toasted almond with broad texture and long mineral finish typical of Hermitage Marsanne. https://www.chapoutier.com