# Domaine de Ferrand Châteauneuf-du-Pape (2023)

- **Producer:** Vignobles Philippe Bravay
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Grenache, Mourvèdre, Syrah, Bourboulenc, Cinsault
- **Region:** Rhône, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 15.5%
- **Average price:** €63
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 15–15 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** raspberry, strawberry, black cherry, mulberry, liquorice, black pepper, lavender, fennel

## About this wine

Domaine de Ferrand Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a red wine from the Southern Rhône Valley, France, produced by Vignobles Philippe Bravay. The 2023 vintage is a Grenache-dominant blend, crafted from exceptionally old vines, some over 100 years old. The domaine is situated in the northern sector of the appellation. Philippe Bravay, who took over from his father Charles, is dedicated to preserving the traditional character of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, focusing on the purity of fruit and terroir. The estate follows organic farming practices and was officially certified in 2024. A distinctive aspect of this wine is its oak-free vinification, aiming to showcase the wine's origins.

## Interesting facts

- Vineyards include plantings from 1904, 1910, and 1920.
- Winemaker Philippe Bravay intentionally avoids oak barrels to preserve fruit purity.
- The domaine achieved official organic certification in 2024.
- Production for the 2023 vintage was limited to approximately 1,416 cases.

## Food pairing

The wine's high, velvety tannins are ideal for complementing the proteins in rich meat dishes, softening their texture. Its pronounced intensity and complex aromatics, including garrigue and spice notes, can stand up to and enhance robust flavors like those found in stews, roasted meats, and hearty bean dishes. The balanced acidity provides a refreshing counterpoint to fatty elements, cleansing the palate.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process at Domaine de Ferrand emphasizes purity and tradition. Grapes are partially destemmed before fermentation in concrete and stainless steel tanks. Winemaker Philippe Bravay deliberately avoids the use of oak barrels, opting instead to age the wine in concrete and stainless steel for 12 to 14 months. This oak-free approach is central to his philosophy of preserving the authentic expression of the vineyard's terroir and the old vines. The wine is bottled unfiltered, with only a single fining, to maintain its integrity and natural character.