Ferraton Samorëns 2024

Ferraton Samorëns is a Côtes du Rhône red made by Ferraton Père et Fils, the Tain l'Hermitage house founded in 1946 and revived from 1998 under Michel Ferraton with Michel Chapoutier. It blends Grenache, Syrah and Cinsault from biodynamic vineyards across the southern Rhône. The region sits on alluvial terraces and clay limestone scattered with the rounded galets roulés that store daytime heat and release it overnight, ripening Grenache to full fruit while the warm Mediterranean climate keeps alcohol generous at 14.5 percent. Grenache supplies red fruit and body, Syrah brings colour, pepper and structure, and Cinsault lifts the aromatics and softens the tannin. The wine is made for early drinking, fermented to capture primary fruit rather than oak, so the focus stays on the grapes and the garrigue character of the place. It is deep ruby in the glass, with a nose of ripe red berries, plum, black pepper and dried thyme over an earthy base. The palate is round and fruit led, with supple tannin, moderate acidity and a savoury, herbal finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees. It suits grilled lamb, roast pork and mushroom dishes.