Domaine Ferrand Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2020 - 1.5L

96pts James Suckling

This youthful 2020 Chateauneuf is enormously spicy, the red fruits character coming through more prominently on the generous and precisely contoured palate. Deep fine tannins are married to a delicate licorice and earthy character on the ample palate. Then comes the great wave of stony freshness at the extremely long finish. A cuvee from "young vines" that are 45-50 years old, and the remainder from 110-120 year old vines. Drinkable now, but best from 2024.

95pts Jeb Dunnuck

I continue to love what vigneron Philippe Bravay accomplishes from his estate in the northern part of the appellation, and his 2020 Châteauneuf Du Pape is another finesse-driven, incredibly beautiful expression of this magical region. Based on 85% Grenache, 5% Mourvedre, and the rest a mix of permitted varieties, it was partially destemmed and brought up in equal parts stainless steel and concrete tanks. It offers a huge perfume of ripe strawberries and red fruits as well as sappy flowers, garrigue, and Provençal herbs. This carries to a medium to full-bodied, balanced, incredibly seamless Châteauneuf du Pape with no hard edges, ultra-fine tannins, and a great finish. I’d be a buyer. This will put a smile on your face any time over the coming 10-15 years. Drink: 2022-2037. 

94pts Vinous

The 2020 Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a seductive blend of 85% Grenache, 5% Mourvèdre, 4% Bourboulenc, 3% Syrah and 3% Cinsaut. Aromas of rose water, wild strawberry, red cherry, raspberry and dried herbs usher this full-bodied, perfumed, rich and refined red. Velvety tannins and fresh acidity define this 2020 Châteauneuf-du-Pape. The savory finish goes on for well over a minute. Drink: 2024-2040.