critic reviews
The 2024 Ferrière was cropped at just 16 hl/ha between September 17 and October 7. This was raised in 40% new oak and 20% in ovoid amphorae. Proprietor Clare Lurton-Villars told me that this year, there is more Petit Verdot, which makes up 18% of the blend. I find this much more successful than its stablemate La Gurgue on the nose with blueberry and blackberry aromas. It's quite floral in style, with touches of violet coming through with time in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with fine grip on the entry. This is a gutsy Ferrière, which I mean in a good way, with a deft pepperiness on the finish. It is worth seeking out.
Juicy fruit integrity, deep spicy notes, just-ripe fruit with plenty of accompanying fragrance and charm, but the acidity of the vintage puts a little more emphasis on the tannins than ideal. 3.8 pH. Harvest 17 September to 8 October. 40% new oak. 16 hl/ha yield.
More elegant and open than its sibling La Gurgue, the 2024 Ferriere reveals aromas of violet, dark berries, fresh licorice and spices, followed by a moderately weighted, sappy and ample wine with firm tannins and a strict, somewhat austere finish. It should gain depth and elegance with the elevage. This blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Petit Verdot (the highest percentage in the estate's history) and 10% Merlot will mature in 40% new oak, 40% one-year-old barrels and 20% amphorae.