Chateau Ferriere 3eme Cru Classe, Margaux 2020

Full-bodied with layers of bark, black tea and intense blackberry and earth. Iodine, too. It’s powerful, chewy and focused. 68% cabernet, 27% merlot, 3% petite verdot and 2% cabernet franc. From biodynamically grown grapes. Demeter certification.

The 2020 Ferrière is a powerhouse. Gravel, scorched earth, licorice, cloves, lavender and inky dark fruit saturate the palate. A virile, potent wine, Ferrière shows the more virile side of Margaux off to great effect. Readers will find a wine of tremendous gravitas. Aging is 40% in new oak, 40% in one year barrels and 20% in concrete tanks.

The most gorgeous violet-edged ruby colour, here there is a clear depth to the fruit and structure. Margaux typicity comes out in the floralily and striking energy in the fruit. A yield of 34hl/ha. 3% Petit Verdot completes the blend. Jacques Lurton has been consulting over the past few years; working with the vineyard and cellar team to help them focus on small things that make a big difference like oxygen management, and although he is no longer consulting the work has clearly paid off.

The 2020 Ferrière is aged 80% in barrel (40% new) and 20% in amphora and concrete eggs with minimal SO2. The bouquet is quite intense and pure, with black cherries, raspberry and light graphite scents. It becomes increasingly floral with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with a slightly creamy texture on the entry, impressive depth, and good grip with a dense, rather structured finish that lingers in the mouth. This is a long-term Margaux that deserves cellaring. Excellent.