The outstanding 2004 Ermitage Les Dionnieres exhibits notes of black currant intermixed with asphalt, soil, and crushed rocks. The wine is rich, has good acidity but a sweetness to the tannin, and a nice, layered texture. The overall impression is one of elegance but power and restrained richness. It should drink nicely from about 2010-2016. Michel Chapoutier remains fully in charge of the wines of Ferraton, and that has meant additional emphasis on terroir, purity of fruit as well as earlier bottling to preserve the wine’s character. Like all of the Chapoutier wines, Chapoutier is adamant about farming vineyards biodynamically or, in the case of wines that are negociant blends, purchasing the wine from organic or biodynamically farmed estates. Importer: A French Paradox, Peoria, IL; tel. (309) 682-8994