Ferraton Père & Fils : Les Dionnières 2019

Brimming with fruit—dark currant, fig and blackberry—yet restrained, with sleek structure, seamlessly inlaid violet, anise and black tea notes, plus a long, refined finish that lets the fruit slowly drip through a loam and ganache filter. Best from 2024 through 2036. 200 cases made, 30 cases imported.

Some tangy berry coulis can be coaxed out with air, but it's very closed for now. Very dense with fine tannins. Huge power and concentration, though the alcohol is high. Great surge of fruit and tannin that coat the palate. Intense, though without the same finesse and balance of Le Méal. From clay-limestone soils facing south, fermentation in concrete. Will be aged up to 18 months, with around 25% new oak.

Opaque violet color. Spice-accented aromas of black raspberry, cherry preserves and smoky minerals, along with floral and vanilla nuances. Appealingly sweet and expansive on the palate, showing smoky mineral lift and sharp focus to its juicy, spice-laced black and blue fruit, vanilla and olive paste flavors, which deepen on the back half. Finishes pliant and spicy, with a solid mineral thrust, well-knit tannins and resonating blue fruit and floral character. 25% new oak.

Beautiful substance, a lovely grain of tannin, a powerful palate but lacking a bit of finesse and freshness on the finish; in this sunny vintage, the slightly stewed fruit aromas reveal the grape’s high ripeness.

Scents of crushed stone, licorice and black cherries appear on the nose of the 2019 Ermitage Les Dionnières. Joined by hints of cedar and vanilla, this is a full-bodied, concentrated effort that deserves some time in the cellar to round into form, as the lengthy finish delivers plenty of ripe but dusty tannins.