E. Guigal : Château de Nalys "Saintes Pierres de Nalys" 2023

Tasting Notes and Characteristics of Château de Nalys "Saintes Pierres de Nalys" 2023 by E. Guigal

Tasting

Appearance
The wine reveals a deep red hue, both dark and dense.

Nose
The aromatic bouquet opens intensely with scents of red and black fruits, reminiscent of strawberry, highlighted by delicate floral notes. The whole is enhanced by spicy, peppery touches and hints of tapenade.

Palate
The palate reveals a silky texture carried by elegant tannins, offering a superb balance between freshness and generosity. Flavours of black cherry, blackcurrant and red berries intertwine with notes of exotic spices, anise and subtle toasted nuances. The finish, ample and persistent, extends on a beautiful saline tension and fruity echoes.

Food and wine pairing

This red wine pairs perfectly with grilled or roasted meats, such as lamb and beef, enhanced with Mediterranean herbs. It also sublimates slow-cooked dishes such as cassoulet, poultry in sauce, as well as charcuterie. Pairings with Asian dishes, mushroom or aubergine-based dishes, and even mature cheeses with character are equally recommended.

Serving and cellaring

To fully enjoy Château de Nalys "Saintes Pierres de Nalys" 2023, serving between 16 and 18°C is recommended, ideally after one hour of decanting. Accessible from its youth, this wine also has a fine potential for evolution and can be enjoyed until 2034.

The elegance and freshness of a great Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine

The estate

Founded in 1946 by Étienne Guigal, the E. Guigal House is an emblematic figure of the Rhône Valley. Today led by Philippe Guigal, representing the third generation, alongside his father Marcel, the family pursues a tireless quest for excellence. In 2017, the estate took a new step with the acquisition of Château de Nalys, a historic property in the south of the region. This expansion allows them to apply their legendary expertise and environmentally respectful philosophy to new outstanding terroirs.

The vineyard

Located in the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation, this high-altitude terroir stands out for its steep north-facing slopes. The estate, in transition to organic farming, is structured around three exceptional plots: Nalys, composed of red sandstone and sandy clay; La Crau, famous for its rolled pebbles bringing structure and minerality; and Bois Sénéchal, with sandier soils. The vines, around 45 years old, are subject to strictly limited yields to promote concentration and pure fruit expression.

Vinification and ageing

After manual harvesting followed by meticulous sorting, the vinification of Château de Nalys "Saintes Pierres de Nalys" 2023 favours brilliance and freshness. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks between 28 and 30°C for nearly four weeks. Ageing then unfolds over eighteen months, mainly in large wooden foudres (80%) and oak barrels (20%), before concluding with six months of refinement in concrete tanks.

Grape varieties

Grenache, Syrah, Muscardin, Mourvèdre, Cinsault and Counoise.