E. Guigal : Château de Nalys "Saintes Pierres de Nalys" 2022

Characteristics and Tasting Notes of Château de Nalys "Saintes Pierres de Nalys" Blanc 2022 by E. Guigal

Tasting Notes

Appearance
The wine reveals a beautiful pale gold hue, at once youthful, limpid and particularly brilliant.

Nose
Elegant and imbued with minerality, the aromatic bouquet exudes seductive notes of peach and citrus fruits, reminiscent of fresh lemon. It is enriched with subtle hints of white flowers, warm herbs and a delicate touch of honey.

Palate
Medium-bodied, the palate charms with its immediate accessibility and beautiful richness. It reveals a complex mineral framework, carried by remarkable energy and freshness. The finish, all in finesse, stands out through a persistent salinity typical of its terroir.

Food and Wine Pairings

This white wine pairs wonderfully with seafood (oysters, lobster, shrimp) as well as raw preparations such as sushi or ceviche. It also accompanies roasted poultry with herbs, white meats served with light sauces, or vegetarian dishes based on spring vegetables and fresh goat cheese very well. Asian dishes, such as mild coconut milk curries, also reveal a beautiful harmony with this cuvée.

The Mineral Expression and Freshness of a White Wine from Châteauneuf-du-Pape

The Estate

Founded in 1946 by Étienne Guigal, the E. Guigal House is a leading institution of the Rhône Valley. Today led by Philippe Guigal, representing the third generation, the family estate stands out for its qualitative demands and environmentally respectful practices. In 2017, the acquisition of Château de Nalys marked a major milestone, anchoring the house in the southern part of the region. This historic 77-hectare estate is undergoing conversion to organic farming, illustrating the desire to sublimate exceptional terroirs while preserving their ecosystem.

The Vineyard

Located at the heart of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation, the vineyard stretches over steep north-facing slopes, benefiting from a high altitude that preserves the vivacity of the berries. The vines evolve on three complementary terroirs: the fine red sandstone and limestone soils of the Nalys lieu-dit, the famous rolled pebbles on the well-drained plateau of La Crau, as well as the more sandy lands of Bois Sénéchal. Yields are naturally low, amounting to approximately 35 hectolitres per hectare.

The Vintage

The 2022 vintage was marked by particularly hot and dry weather conditions throughout the entire region. This climate favoured early phenolic maturity and remarkable concentration in the berries. In order to preserve the balance and natural acidity in the face of these summer temperatures, the harvest began early, from the month of August, allowing grapes to be picked in optimal sanitary condition.

Winemaking and Ageing

The hand-harvested berries undergo rigorous sorting before being gently pressed in a pneumatic press. After a twenty-four-hour rest, fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled vats. Ageing is then carried out by combining wooden containers and stainless-steel vats, a method meticulously calibrated to preserve all the purity and freshness of the wine.

Grape Varieties

51% Grenache Blanc, 24% Bourboulenc, 14% Clairette, 11% Roussanne, Picpoul and Picardan.