Les Remparts de Ferrière Margaux 2018

Winery Background and History

Château Ferrière, located in the Margaux appellation of Bordeaux, France, is a distinguished estate classified as a Third Growth in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification. Established in the 18th century by Gabriel Ferrière, the château has a rich history of producing wines that embody the elegance and finesse characteristic of Margaux. In recent years, under the stewardship of Claire Villars-Lurton, the estate has embraced organic and biodynamic farming practices, achieving certification in 2015 and 2018, respectively. 

Producer and Winemaker

Les Remparts de Ferrière is the second wine of Château Ferrière, crafted by the estate’s dedicated team led by Claire Villars-Lurton. The winemaking process is overseen by Gérard Fenouillet, with Alexandre Beaumont serving as the maître de chai (cellar master). Renowned oenologist Eric Boissenot provides expert consultation, ensuring that the wines reflect the unique terroir of Margaux while maintaining the estate’s commitment to sustainable viticulture. 

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The vineyards of Château Ferrière are situated in the heart of the Margaux appellation, encompassing approximately 8 hectares. The soil composition is predominantly gravelly, providing excellent drainage and promoting the deep root systems essential for vine health. The temperate maritime climate, influenced by the nearby Gironde estuary, offers mild winters and warm summers, creating optimal conditions for the cultivation of grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

The 2018 Les Remparts de Ferrière underwent meticulous vinification to preserve the integrity of the fruit and express the terroir’s characteristics. The wine was aged for 12 months, with 60% in one- and two-year-old barrels and 40% in ovoid concrete tanks. This aging process enhances the wine’s complexity and structure while maintaining its freshness and fruit-forward profile. 

Tasting Notes

Les Remparts de Ferrière 2018 embodies the quintessential traits of Margaux wines: finesse, elegance, and a balanced power. The palate is rich, round, and supple, showcasing delightful aromas of black fruits.  According to Falstaff, the wine presents a strong ruby garnet hue with purple reflections and subtle ochre lightening on the rim. The nose is herbal and savory, featuring tobacco, blackberry, cranberry, nougat, and dark minerality. On the palate, it offers delicate sour cherry, fresh structure, fine tannins, and a long, salty finish, making it an elegant food wine. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This Margaux pairs exceptionally well with classic French cuisine, particularly dishes featuring red meats such as roast lamb or beef tenderloin. Its balanced acidity and refined tannins also complement game birds and dishes with rich sauces. For cheese pairings, consider aged varieties like Comté or Gruyère, which harmonize with the wine’s complexity and depth.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate the aromatic profile and nuanced flavors of Les Remparts de Ferrière 2018, it is recommended to serve the wine at a temperature between 16-18°C (61-64°F). Decanting the wine for approximately 30 to 60 minutes prior to serving can enhance its expression by allowing it to breathe and soften any youthful tannins.

Storage and Aging Potential

The 2018 vintage of Les Remparts de Ferrière exhibits characteristics that suggest a favorable aging potential. When stored in optimal conditions—a cool, dark environment with consistent humidity—the wine can evolve gracefully over the next 5 to 10 years. This maturation will likely enhance its complexity, integrating its fruit, tannins, and acidity into a harmonious profile.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

The blend for Les Remparts de Ferrière 2018 consists of 57% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, and 8% Petit Verdot. 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

The alcohol content of the 2018 Les Remparts de Ferrière is 13.5%.

Scores

• Falstaff: 93/100 

• Bernard Burtschy: 91/100

• Jane Anson, Decanter: 90/100