Chateau Ferriere - Margaux 2020 (375ml)

68% cabernet, 27% merlot, 3% petit verdot and 2% cabernet franc. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification.

Aging is 40% in new oak, 40% in one year barrels and 20% in concrete tanks.

Gabriel Ferriere, a well-known broker in Bordeaux in the 18th century was the founder of this estate. Chateau Ferriere was classified a third growth in 1855. The Villars family bought the vineyards and the chateau in 1988 and took over the viticulture and winemaking.

With its 10 hectares, Chateau Ferriere is one of the smallest classified growths. The vineyard is maily located in Margaux, and the soil consists of very deep gravel on limestone marl. The size of the vineyard, combined with its beautiful terroir, make Chateau Ferriere a rare and highly-valued wine.

Claire Villars Luton is responsible for the revival of this estate. Year after year, she has done her best to bring out the unique terror of Chateau Ferriere in the wine, to restore the vineyard to its original splendor, and to make it fully worth of its prestigious classification.

Complex aromas of crushed berries, walnuts, wet earth and spice follow through to a full to medium body, chewy yet juicy tannins and a savory finish. This needs time to soften but I like the character and intensity. 68% cabernet, 27% merlot, 3% petit verdot and 2% cabernet franc. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification.

This wine has a dense character, with rich fruits and blackberry flavors heightened by the tannins. Because of the heat of Margaux, the wine is rich while always elegant. Organic and biodynamic.

The 2020 Ferrière is a powerhouse. Gravel, scorched earth, licorice, cloves, lavender and inky dark fruit saturate the palate. A virile, potent wine, Ferrière shows the more virile side of Margaux off to great effect. Readers will find a wine of tremendous gravitas. Aging is 40% in new oak, 40% in one year barrels and 20% in concrete tanks. –Antonio Galloni
Barrel Sample: 94-96