Superior to both the 2000 and 2001, the 1999 Ermitage le Meal is more in the style of the 2005 (and maybe 2001) with its terrific concentration and depth paired with vibrant freshness and purity. Still ruby, opaque colored, it reveals sensational notes of black raspberries, currants, graphite, crushed rocks and pepper. Full-bodied, concentrated and focused, with a fabulous mid-palate and finish, this is a drop-dead gorgeous Hermitage to enjoy anytime over the coming 2-3 decades.

The 1999 Ermitage Le Meal will not be ready to drink for at least fifteen years. One must admire Michel Chapoutier for fashioning a wine that goes against the modern day predilection for wines of immediate gratification. This effort is reminiscent of Bordeaux's famed Chateau Ausone. A dense ruby/purple color is accompanied by subtle notions of powdered stone, chalk, violets, cassis, graphite, and pepper. The wine is dense, tough-textured, tight, and tannic. It possesses considerable weight and depth, but it is not revealing the opulence it did last year. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2050. With respect to Chapoutier's red wines, 2000 was a very fine vintage. Interestingly, this offering revealed more fat and flesh than many of his northern Rhone peers.Importer: Paterno Imports, Lake Bluff, IL; tel. (847) 604-89000

Lush and round, but mostly it's a super-elegant Hermitage that warms your heart with its seductive texture and flavors. So subtle at first, with ripe fruit, mineral, wet earth and roasted game notes, it kicks into overdrive on the finish, which seems endless. Quite an experience. Drink now through 2020. 415 cases made.??–PM??Region: France / Northern Rh?ne / Ermitage Select to Add

Chapoutier’s selections of the best parcels of vines in Hermitage are set to become legendary. Sold under the ancient spelling of the appellation name (Ermitage), they represent the epitome of the power and concentration that lies behind the reputation of the appellation. This cuvee is the best of the collection, with its brooding, opaque character, suggesting rather than revealing power at this stage. Age it until your new-born baby is old enough to drink, and it will be just about ready. ——R.V.(6/1/2002)—— 98