While not the blockbuster year in the Southern Rhone, the Northern Rhone's 2007 vintage still produced a bevy of ripe, sexy and forward wines that have drunk well since release. Chapoutier's 2007 Ermitage le Meal offers a full-bodied, charming, character-filled personality to go with notes of black raspberries, creme de cassis, incense and hints of beef blood on the nose. Sweetly fruited, with gorgeous purity and no hard edges, it's drinking beautifully today, but should continue to evolve nicely for another 10-15 years.

Ripe and polished for the vintage, with sleek raspberry and black currant fruit supported by cocoa powder and graphite notes. Shows lingering charcoal and herb hints on the finish. Drink now through 2013. 394 cases made, 80 cases imported.??–JM??Region: France / Northern Rh?ne / Ermitage Select to Add

Savoury, much tighter and denser than the Greffieux (which surely has a sandy element to it?) - this is more recognisably classic Hermitage. Like licking a stone on the finish and bone dry. Very long and full of energy. More open than the Pavillon.