E. Guigal : Château de Nalys 2019

Tasting notes and characteristics of Château de Nalys 2019 white from E. Guigal

Tasting

Appearance
Bright and remarkably clear, the robe reflects meticulous work and excellent technical mastery.

Nose
Intensely aromatic, the bouquet reveals delicate floral notes and a subtle hint of vanilla brought by the ageing.

Palate
Generous and vibrant, the palate seduces with its silky texture and great freshness. It unveils a superb mineral framework, beautifully balanced and precise, before stretching out on an exceptionally long finish, carried by floral and spicy nuances.

Food and wine pairings

Perfectly balanced, this wine pairs wonderfully with roasted poultry, white meats in sauce or hard cheeses aged for more than 18 months.

Serving and cellaring

For optimal tasting, it is recommended to serve Château de Nalys 2020 at a temperature between 10 and 12°C. With fine ageing potential, it can be enjoyed until around 2036.

A white wine from Châteauneuf-du-Pape, alluring in its freshness and richness

The estate

Founded in 1946 by Étienne Guigal, the E. Guigal House is an emblematic figure of the Rhône Valley. Now led by Philippe Guigal, representing the third generation, the family estate has distinguished itself through its high standards and respect for terroirs. In 2017, the domaine expanded with the acquisition of Château de Nalys, a historic property whose origins date back to 1633. This purchase marked a major milestone for the family, who applies its renowned expertise there to elevate the wines to the highest peaks of their appellation.

The vineyard

Located at the heart of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation, the vineyard extends across high-altitude terroirs with north-facing slopes. This geographical setting offers a slightly cooler climate, conducive to the slow ripening of the berries. The vines grow on three distinct plots: the famous La Crau terroir with its rolled pebbles bringing beautiful minerality, the saffres soils of Nalys offering freshness, and the sands of Bois Sénéchal. The estate is committed to an environmental approach, having obtained High Environmental Value certification at the end of 2019.

The vintage

The 2019 vintage was marked by warm and sunny weather conditions. This favourable climate allowed the berries to reach optimal ripeness while preserving a fine natural acidity. The harvest took place in September under ideal weather, ensuring perfect sanitary conditions.

Winemaking and ageing

The production receives meticulous attention. After hand harvesting and rigorous sorting, fermentation takes place 70% in wood and 30% in stainless steel tanks. The wine then benefits from 8 months of ageing, including 70% in barrels and demi-muids, allowing the woody notes to be subtly integrated while preserving the natural freshness of the fruit.

Grape varieties

This wine is made from a blend dominated by Roussanne and Grenache Blanc, complemented by Clairette and a touch of Picardan.