I loved the 2012 Hermitage le Meal Estate last year on release, and I loved it this year as well. Its inky color is followed by terrific notes of black raspberries (which I almost always find in wines from le Meal), cassis, graphite, wood smoke and violets. These give way to a full-bodied Hermitage that has beautiful purity of fruit, a streak of vibrant acidity, sweet tannin, and a great finish, all of which will allow it to drink nicely for 15-20 years.