ISABEL FERRANDO CHATEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE 2020

This gorgeous wine made by a woman was recommended by a salesperson at Martin’s Wine Cellar, and it was a GREAT pick. I love that Isabel Ferrando is being praised as a “gutsy” winemaker. This bottle has extraordinary scores (high 90’s) from real critics so I will only say that I tasted wild strawberry and tarragon and loved, loved, loved it.

Here are some reviews from real critics: Robert Parker said: Isabel Ferrando informed me during my ***** that she planned to eliminate the Reserve Auguste Favier and Collection Charles Giraud bottlings, folding those lots and the “tradition” Saint-Prefert Châteauneuf into a single, combined wine under the Famille Isabel Ferrando label. The resulting blend she showed as the 2020 Famille Isabel Ferrando Chateauneuf du Pape is a fine effort, with layers of cola-like spice and hints of garrigue layered against a lush backdrop of cherries and raspberries. Medium to full-bodied and almost creamy in texture, it finishes long, silky and mouthwatering.
Barrel Sample: 93-95

Wine Spectator said: Approachable out of the gate, with gorgeous red fruit, wild strawberry, licorice root, dusty earth and lavender flavors joined by floral highlights. Beautifully textured and silky on the palate, with mineral intensity building on the palate, imparting nice persistence and length. A polished yet honest, characteristic wine. Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah and Mourvèdre.