Le Méal Blanc 2017 is an impressive white wine made from 100% Marsanne, sourced from the south-facing, steep terroir of the lieu-dit “Le Méal” on the high Rhône terraces. The soil consists of rounded stones and loess over a deep layer of clay. The grapes are hand-harvested in several passes. After light settling, whole bunches are pressed with moderate use of sulfur, and fermentation takes place with indigenous yeasts, mainly in wooden demi-muids (10% new) and partly in stainless steel vats. The wine then matures for 11 months on fine lees with some bâtonnage. The color is golden yellow. The nose is expressive with notes of ripe exotic fruit, tomato leaf, and a hint of smoke. On the palate, the wine is full at the start, with great volume and an airy character; the mouthfeel is sublime, with flavors of exotic fruit and milk caramel, followed by a refined smoky finish. The 2017 vintage is considered exceptional and offers great aging potential. Despite a growing season with extreme weather conditions, the year produced wines with great elegance, balance, and soft tannins. The white wines retain lively acidity and show pronounced minerality. Critical acclaim: 98 points from Robert Parker, 97 from Wine Spectator, 96 from Decanter, Jeb Dunnuck, and Vinous, and 95 from James Suckling.
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