WINEMAKER'S NOTES:
Translated as “holy stones”, a play on the soils and history of Chateauneuf-du-Pape, the second red wine to Chateau de Nalys is an altogether different animal. Differing varietal and plot selections, fermentation, and aging result in a wine that is rich and ample, yet offers immense direct and approachable pleasure; a wine of red fruits, supple structure and brightness. In comparison to the Grand Vin, this wine relies both on varieties and plots that bring freshness, and a vinfication entirely in stainless steel and foudres that also emphasizes that freshness.
Deep, dark and profound red color. An elegant nose that opens with notes of red fruits. Ample and supple tannins while keeping a lovely frame. A rich wine, balanced between richness and freshness.
Pair with an assortment of charcuterie, red meat grilled or cooked in a sauce like a spring lamb stew, a platter of aged cheeses.
Blend: 69% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 5% Cinsault, 4% Muscardin, 1% Counoise, 1% Mourvèdre
TASTING NOTES:
Pristine black-cherry and plum flavors are shaded by savory accents of nut, smoke and leather in this Grenache-dominant blend of six regional grapes. It's silken and expansive in mouthfeel but anchored by firm, fine tannins. Lovely already it's likely to gain savory complexities through 2030.
- Wine Enthusiast, 93 pts.
The "second wine" of Nalys, the 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape Saintes Pierres is a blend of 69% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 5% Cinsault, 4% Muscardin, and 1% each Counoise and Mourvèdre. It was put together by the Guigal team, although the vinifications took place prior to the acquisition. It's an attractive, full-bodied wine that delivers ripe cherries, a hint of stone fruit and very supple tannins. It's a bit too easy to think it will be a long-term cellar candidate, but it's a ripe, juicy mouthful of fruit to drink over the next 6-7 years.
- Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, 92 pts.
This has very concentrated fruit presence with an excellent sense of purity and focus. Aromas of rich, dark berries define the nose. Long, rich palate with a striking, layered, spicy impression. Ripe dark plums and chocolate to close. Drink or hold.
-James Suckling, 92 pts.
