Le Méal (0.75 L)

Chapoutier’s 2021 Ermitage le Méal, like a couple of the other parcel selections this vintage, seems just a bit cedary compared to other recent vintages. Red raspberries and ripe cherries lead the way in this medium to full-bodied effort. It’s silky and refined, with some drying wood tannins and crisp, cranberry-ish acids on the finish. It requires a palate realignment after the past few years.