Domaine de Ferrand has property origins dating to at least 1760, with the domaine officially founded in 1960 by Charles Bravay. Now run by his son Philippe Bravay (since 1995), who began estate bottling that year. The estate farms 7.5 hectares in Châteauneuf-du-Pape across 6 parcels in 4 lieux-dits, plus 9.5-10 hectares in Côtes du Rhône. Oldest vines are 95-110 years old. Vineyards lie in the cooler northern part of the appellation. Philippe cultivates according to organic farming principles. Traditional winemaking: no barriques, no filtration, very low yields (under 2.5 tons/acre).
Blend: 80% Grenache Noir, 7% Mourvèdre, 5% Syrah, 5% Bourboulenc, 3% Cinsault
95 James Suckling What a graceful and refined Chateauneuf. This glides over your palate thanks to the very fine tannins. Delicate aromas of spices, Amarena cherries and mulberries. So sensuous and creamy in the very long finish, with a touch of bitter oranges. Hard to believe this has 15.5% alcohol. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.
94 Jeb Dunnuck A beautiful wine in the vintage, the 2023 Châteauneuf Du Pape has a ruby hue and ultra-classic aromatics of red and black fruits, peppery garrigue, lavender, and assorted spicy, herbes de Provence-like nuances. Based on 80% Grenache, 5% Syrah, 7% Mourvèdre, 3% Cinsault, and 5% Bourboulenc, it was partially destemmed, vinified in concrete, and aged in stainless steel. Medium-bodied, it has a pure, layered, graceful mouthfeel, ripe, silky tannins, and outstanding length. With roughly 1,416 cases produced, this is a brilliant effort that's best enjoyed over the coming 10-15 years. Drink 2025-2039
92 Vinous Ripe raspberry and strawberry, licorice, dried herbs and a rosewater splash set the stage for the 2023 Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Round and refreshing, the inviting 2023 is distinctively juicy. It’s shaping up to be a fruit-driven, uplifting rendition of this cuvée. Barrel Sample: 90-92
