Young Philippe Bravay, whom Robert Parker in Issue 131 of The Wine Advocate say "is unquestionable one of Chateauneuf du Pape’s up and coming stars" and is now taking over the family domaine. He is extremely dedicated to preserving the unique traditions and special characteristics that Chateauneuf brings to the world. The domaine is tiny, only 5 ½ hectares of which over half is on vines approaching 100 years old, all situated in the lieu-dit Ferrand. He uses organic growing techniques, limits yields strictly (his Cotes du Rhone, even, is less than 2 1/2 tons to the acre yields, and the Chateauneuf du Pape even less) and vinifies traditionally.

The Cotes du Rhone vines were planted between 1933 and 1946, and consist of 80% Grenache, 15% Syrah and 5% Cinsault. It is, again as Mr. Parker states "a beautiful example of how much flavor, character, and complexity can be packed into a Cotes du Rhone".

The Chateauneuf du Pape is 90% Grenache, the vines ranging in age from 60 to 100 years of age, and the balance the other twelve Chateauneuf varietals. From these he obtains superb natural ripeness, usually in excess of 14%. The vinification is traditional and the aging is for the most part in large oak foudre, but also a portion in barrique, however no new oak.

As great as these wines are, judging by the potential of the ’99, which was even riper, this is a domaine that’s only going to get better.

Technical Information:

Domaine de Ferrand 2005 Côtes du Rhône Cuvée Antique
Domaine de Ferrand 2004 Châteauneuf du Pape
Domaine de Ferrand 2004 Côtes du Rhône la Ferrande