1999 Chapoutier Le Mal Blanc Ermitage

Notes sourced from M. Chapoutier

GRAPE VARIETY
Marsanne. The vines (more than 50 years old) give low production and guarantee high quality.

SOIL
The grapes producing Le Méal come from the Méal hillside. Its soil is made up of very old river alluvions from the glacial era and a lot of pebbles that contribute to the soil warming.

HARVEST
The grapes are hand-harvested at full maturity.

VINIFICATION
After pressing the entire grapes, the must is cold-racked for 24 hours. About 50 % is vinified in new casks, the rest ferments in vats.

MATURING
The wine is frequently tasted in cask, prior to bottling. Organoleptic tests are carried out to determine how long it should remain in casks and the bottling date.

TASTING
Colour : Brilliant and golden yellow.
Nose :Mineral, white fleshed fruits, dried apricot, slight musk scent.
Palate : Well-balanced, fruity, apple sauce, acidity contributing to a pleasantly fresh taste. An agreeable vanilla touch to woody notes.