Ferraton Père & Fils, Côtes-Du-Rhône Villages, Plan de Dieu

For years I’ve been a big fan of wines from the Côtes Du Rhône region and the sub-appellations within, but Plan de Dieu is an appellation I don’t encounter very often. And it could be one you’ve never even heard of. For a region with centuries of wine making history, Plan de Dieu is a relatively young appellation — at least by title. It was just granted Côtes Du Rhône Villages status in 2005, although wine has been produced in the region for centuries.

The appellation resides northeast of Orange, France, just west of the Gigondas and Vacqueyras appellations. The territory of Plan de Dieu covers about 1,500 hectares with about 1,050 hectares (2,600 acres) planted with vines. Like most other reds from this area, the wines are made primarily from grenache, with at least 20% syrah and mourvèdre, per AOC regulations. This one, from Ferraton Père & Fils, also has some carignan in the blend.

This wine has everything I love about a good Rhone red, the rich aromatics, the luscious mouth feel, the delicious flavors. The nose is almost incense-like with intense blackberry, black currant and cardamom aromas. Ripe blackberry flavors abound on the palate with a touch of dark chocolate and spice as well. There’s enough acidity to give it a vibrant freshness but it’s not overly acidic. The mouthfeel is velvety. It has a long finish with lingering berry flavors and just a touch of black tea bitterness.

While I don’t see Plan de Dieu wines often, after tasting this one I’ll be keeping my eye out for more.

Wine: Ferraton Père & Fils, Côtes-Du-Rhône Villages, Plan de Dieu
Varieties: Grenache, syrah, mourvèdre, carignan
Vintage: 2017
Alcohol: 14%
Rating: 90
Average price: $18.00
Disclosure: This wine was received as a media sample.