M Chapoutier, Ermitage Le Meal Blanc 2007

"I was shocked by the 2007 Ermitage le Meal Blanc and from a vintage that yielded mostly forward, supple and approachable efforts, it has stunning concentration, density, depth and texture. Still light/medium gold in color, it offers classic crushed-rock-like minerality, licorice, charcoal and sautéed peach characteristics to go with a lively, fresh, yet full-bore and decadent profile on the palate. It has the concentration and purity to evolve for decades, but is mind-blowing stuff today." - Wine Advocate