Ferrand 2009 1.5 L Châteauneuf-duPape

Domaine de Ferrand is not the most famous or most expensive Châteauneuf, but Philippe Bravay makes beautiful wines - no fancy cuvées or new oak - just one wine from 50 to 115 year-old vines on sandy and galet stone soils in the northern sector. The Ferrand 2009 was one of the finest wines of this excellent vintage (just a notch below Rayas and Jaques Perrin!) that will be at full maturity now for your special gatherings this fall and winter. "Vivid ruby. Deeply pitched aromas of red and dark berries, cherry and licorice, with slow building spice and floral character. At once rich and lively, displaying very good clarity in its black raspberry and bitter cherry flavors. Shows a seamless texture and finishes with excellent power, focus and floral-driven persistence." Josh Raynolds, Vinous