Ferraton Hermitage Les Miaux 2020

Ferraton Père & Fils farms biodynamically in the Northern Rhône, and Les Miaux is a single-varietal Syrah from the famed Hermitage hill. It draws on two contrasting plots: Les Dionnières, rich in clay, limestone and pebbles, and Le Méal, a terraced site with rounded stones. These stony soils hold heat and drain well, helping the late-ripening Syrah reach full maturity, while the granite and clay underneath lend structure and freshness. The wine is aged for 12 months in oak barrels, where slow oxygen exchange softens the tannins, adds gentle spice and builds the savoury complexity for which Hermitage Syrah is known. The colour is deep, dark red. The nose shows dark berries and plum with the classic Northern Rhône signature of black pepper, olive, smoke and a leathery, herbal edge. The palate is full bodied and structured, with firm tannins, fresh acidity and a long savoury finish that reflects the rocky terroir. This is a wine that rewards a few years in the cellar. Serve at 17 to 18 degrees and decant an hour ahead. It suits roast beef, lamb, game and mushroom dishes.