From one of the warmer terroirs on Hermitage Hill, the 2018 Ermitage Le Méal was all destemmed and vinified in concrete, followed by 18 months in 20% new demi-muids and barrels. It's unquestionably the ripest, most opulent of the single vineyard Hermitage and sports a dense purple/plum color as well as powerful notes of black raspberries, currants, camphor, cured meats, acacia flowers, and violets. Rich, concentrated, and full-bodied, it builds beautifully on the palate, has a ripe, expansive texture, sweet tannins, and a rocking finish. This is one sexy, pleasure-bent Hermitage that can be enjoyed any time over the coming 30 years or more.

Expansive aromas of ripe red and blue fruits, potpourri and smoky minerals acquire a spicy nuance as the wine opens up. Broad and seamless on the palate, displaying fine delineation to the lively, mineral-drenched black raspberry, boysenberry, candied violet and spicecake flavors. Shows a distinctly suave character and finishes extremely long and appealingly sweet, with well-knit tannins framing lingering blue fruit and floral notes.

The 2018 Ermitage le Méal is denser than the les Greffieux, boasting layers of blackberry fruit. It's full-bodied, rich, concentrated and tannic, with a long chewy finish that hints at mocha and espresso.