Two End of Summer Wines

Nothing says summer like a well-chilled white wine served with a fresh salad and grilled seafood. These two offerings from Ferraton Père & Fils Côtes du Rhône put the perfect examination point on the end of summer wining and dining.

History

Ferraton Père & Fils began in 1946 when Jean Orëns Ferraton purchased a vineyard in the Southern Rhone area of France. Ferraton’s son, Michel expanded the vineyards located in the appellations of Hermitage, Crozes-Hermitage and Saint-Joseph Ferraton. He converted them to organic viticulture and had them certified in 1998. Michel Chapoutier purchased the estate in 2004 and oenologist Damien Brisset now crafts the wines. If you’re visiting in the area, the tasting room is located in the village of Tain-l'Hermitage, France.

Both Ferraton Père & Fils Côtes du Rhône Samorëns are grown in a vineyard soil comprised of limestone and clay, which adds a mineral component to the taste. The wines are cold stabilized after pressing for 48 hours and fermented in stainless steel tanks for bottling at the end of winter.

Ferraton Père & Fils Côtes du Rhône Samorëns Blanc 2016

This Côtes du Rhône Samorëns Blanc is a crisp white wine that includes a blend of Roussane (35%), Viognier (30%), Grenache Blanc (25%), Clairette (5%) and Marsanne (5%) grapes. Light straw color in the glass, green apples and orange blossoms are heavy on the nose. Nicely acidic in the mouth with the flavors of citrus, fresh grass and minerals on the palate, and a fresh, lingering finish. We served it with fresh seafood and received rave reviews. (This was my favorite of the two wines.) Sells for $14 a bottle at wine shops in the U.S.

Ferraton Pere & Fils Côtes du Rhône Samorëns Rosé, 2016

The Côtes du Rhône Samorëns Rosé is a blend of Grenache (50%), Syrah (30%) and Cinsault (20%). All three of the grapes are used in this classic rosé blend attributed to the Southern Rhone region. The bright coral color attracts attention in the glass, and the aromas of  cherry and red berries tempt you to taste. The flavor profile includes raspberry, strawberry, and flint with a hint of tea on the finish. Good acidity makes this an enjoyable late summer vino that pairs well with tacos or burgers. This wine sells for $14 per bottle in the U.S.

~ Joy

(Editor’s note: Both wines were received for media review.)

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