Ferraton Crozes-Hermitage Calendes 2023

Ferraton Père & Fils is a northern Rhône producer, and Calendes is its Crozes-Hermitage, the largest appellation of the region and one built entirely on Syrah. The estate farms biodynamically. Crozes-Hermitage spreads across varied ground, from glacial terraces of rounded stones on the plain to granite and loess on the slopes, soils that ripen Syrah while holding on to the pepper and savoury character that define northern Rhône reds. The continental climate with warm days and cool nights preserves acidity and aromatic lift. The wine is aged for 12 months in used French oak barrels, which round the tannin through gentle oxygen exchange without adding overt new oak, while malolactic fermentation softens the acidity. The colour is deep red. The nose shows dark berries and plum with the classic Syrah signature of black pepper, olive and dried herbs, plus a subtle smoky note. The palate is medium to full bodied, savoury and structured, with fine tannin and a peppery, mineral finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanted when young. It suits grilled beef, game and lamb.