2020 Ferriere

A serious, structured vintage, the 2020 Ferrière unwinds in the glass with aromas of sweet cherries, berries and plums mingled with raw cocoa and violets. On the palate, it's medium to full-bodied, with excellent concentration and plenty of powdery tannin that asserts itself on the youthfully firm finish. This blend of 68% Cabernet Sauvignon and 27% Merlot, derived from a very high proportion of old vines, is a real success, but it will require patience.

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.

The 2020 Ferrière is tremendous. Dark fruit, lavender, gravel, incense and dark spice are some of the many notes that develop. A wine of vertical, explosive energy, Ferrière is fabulous. The tannins are bruising today, so readers will have to be patient, but all the ingredients are there for the 2020 to be superb. There is a feeling of unrestrained wildness in the Ferrière that is hugely appealing.