Saintes Pierres de Nalys Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2019

Produced from three exceptional terroirs: 33% Nalys, with fine, red sandstone and sandy clay, with some limestone and soft sandstone; 34% La Crau, featuring the famous galets, large round pebbles derived from the Rhone river; 33% Bois Senechal, with slightly smaller galets and sandier, less structured soils than La Crau. These vines average 45 years of age, with the typically low yields of Châteauneuf-du-Pape of 35 hl/ha. The varietal composition is 65% Grenache, 25% Syrah, 5% Muscardin, 5% (Mourvedre, Cinsault, Vaccarese, Terret Noir). All 13 permitted Châteauneuf grapes are planted on all 3 vineyard plots at Nalys.

Surrounding the estate, the “Nalys” vineyard has very fine soils that create supple wines that are extremely silky and retain freshness. These are some of the oldest soils in Châteauneuf, underlying many of the other soil compositions in the appellation, made up of red sandstone, a sandy clay soil, and covered limestone with some soft sandstone at the vineyard edges. This plot is directly adjoining – over the hill – from Rayas, the great example of finesse in Châteaneuf. Official lieu-dit in land registries is “Grande Pierre”.

“La Crau” is arguably the single greatest vineyard in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and Nalys has 38 acres located as a single center-north block. It is famous specifically for structured, complex and intensely expressive wines. Naly’s holdings are the highest elevation of the Crau plateau and bordering forest they own, providing slightly cooler temperatures and ideal drainage – the sweet spot. The soils are made up of the famous galets: large round pebbles derived from the Rhône river. Direct neighbors are Henri Bonneau, La Janasse (used for their Vieilles Vignes), and other leading properties.

Adjoining La Crau, Nalys is the sole owner of the top of the plateau. Like La Crau, containing galets, though slightly smaller stones, and sandier soil composition; the wines are slightly less structured, more evenly composed. The site of their best Mourvedre plot, Bois Senechal also has fairly unique terraced vines in rows sloping back to the winery. Neighbors are further below the plateau, Mont Olivet, Domaine de la Solitude. Official lieu-dit is “Bois Seneseau”.

Manual harvesting and sorting was followed by vinification and 24 months of aging in stainless steel and foudres (10% new).

2019 is another excellent vintage for the Rhône Valley, with exceptional potential quality in both the North and South. A dry spring was followed by a moderate summer featuring three distinct heat spikes; harvest occurred normally in mid-September. The grapes were ripe and concentrated with excellent natural acidity, and the wines are rich but balanced and expressive.

Deep, dark and profound red. An elegant nose, open with notes of red fruits. The palate is ample and supple, with tannins keeping a lovely frame. Overall, a rich wine, balanced between richness and freshness.