2008 Hermitage Rouge, Les Miaux, Domaine Ferraton

Hermitage is one of the most famous of all French wines, its name associated down the centuries with a beguiling combination of power and finesse, admirably displayed in this example from Ferraton.

Les Méaux is a brand name rather than a specific vineyard, the nomenclature a not entirely successful amalgam of the communes of Le Méal and Les Dionnières. The Syrah grapes were hand-picked from old vines on steep alluvial terraces and then aged for 14 months in barriques, some of which were new. The result is classic Hermitage from a forward and very approachable vintage; elegance and power entwined, with great persistence on the finish. The age of the vines has ensured an impressive concentration in what was, for some, a tricky vintage. Not, it seems, for our friends at Ferraton.
(Simon Field MW, BBR Buyer)