What kind of wine is Crozes-Hermitage La Matiniere 2008 Ferreton Pere & Fils
Answer From Expert Roger Bohmrich MW
This is a wine from the Northern Rhone Valley of France grown on the left bank of the river. The appellation of Crozes-Hermitage is the largest of those in this northern section, and the vineyards cover both slopes and plains. Crozes is associated mainly with red wines based on Syrah, but there are many delicious dry whites made from some combination of Marsanne and Roussanne grapes. This particular bottling from Ferraton relies entirely on Marsanne and is made in a way to put the emphasis on the attractive fruit qualities of this grape, with a suggestion of fresh apricot and a touch of almond. This is a style to drink within a few years of vintage, so your 2008 - a restrained, quite dry and not overtly fruity vintage for these whites - should show well now. It will partner with white fish of various types (trout, sole, turbot, etc.) in butter and cream sauces, or with lighter meats such as pork roast and veal with subtle light reductions. It's also a good drink by itself before the meal...
