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Domaine Ferraton Les Dionnières 1998 Vintage: 1998 Colour: Red Origin: France - Côtes du Rhône - Septentrionales - Hermitage AOC Alc % by Vol: 13% 6 X750ml 251CHF GaultMillau: Jean-Michel Deluc: Robert Parker: 90/100

Our opinion

We loved this very generous, lively, full-bodied and complex wine. The aromatic structure tell of the power and strength hidden in this wine. A wonderful job, with huge respect paid to the grapes, that many other houses in the Rhône Valley are incapable of doing. Very tasty today with a great balance and perfect harmony. A hearty Christmas meal would be the perfect accompaniment.

Description

Founded in 1946 by Jean Ferraton, the Ferraton estate has been operated in partnership with the Chapoutier firm since 1998. This synergy has brought new winemaking know how, with the institution of quality controls and the progressive conversion of the estate to bio-dynamic farming.

Tips on service

• Conservation: ready now but will improve
• At its best in: 2008
• To decant: 2 hours
• Serve at 18°

Food and wine matching

Pheasent foie gras and truffles braised in a port sauce, rabbit a la royale, wild boar casserole, coq au vin, rost beef and marrow, braised beef cooked in wine, duck and olive, strong cheeses.

Tasting notes

By Jean Michel Deluc : Master Sommelier

Eye - The intense ruby colour of this wine with nuances of violet and dark red near the edge of the glass. There are also shades that have turned slightly orange due to the evolution of the wine. It is glossy, opaque due to its density and offers a nice visual concentration.
Nose - On the nose we are quickly attracted by the rich and voluptuous fruitiness of this wine. With its scents of cherries, prunes, blackcurrants and blackberries, which become more jam like after a little air. The aeration also brings out the splendid aromas of the aging, soft spices, smoke, light tobacco and chocolate. There are also the slightly fresher notes of mint and liquorice to finish of this already wonderfully complex composition.
Palate - On the palate the wine, just like the nose, has a very fruity attack, which is very rounded and smooth with a velvety texture. The fruity framework is the same as the nose in addition to the acidity of the wine that is very refreshing and offers a relief to the fruit in the middle of you mouth. The finish to the wine is particularly spectacular with the spicy and floral notes coming through, followed by the tannins, which like the acidity melt into the richness of the fruit and give great length to the wine.