E. Guigal Saintes Pierres de Nalys Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2016, Rhone Valley, France

Since their very first vintage bottled under the Guigal name, in 1946, the Guigal family has produced a Châteauneuf-du-Pape. The terroirs of Nalys realize a dream spanning three generations to join this leading prestigious and historic appellation. A property of 125 contiguous acres, Nalys is comprised of three spectacular plots within three of the best vineyards in the appellation. Wine: Translated as “holy stones”, a play on the soils and history of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the second red wine to Château 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. Grape Varieties: 69% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 5% Cinsault, 4% Muscardin, 1% Counoise, 1% Mourvedre Vine. Age: Vines average 45 years of age. Winemaking: Fermentation: Manual harvest and sorting followed by vinfication in stainless steel lasting around around 4 weeks. Aging: 8 months in stainless steel and foudres (10%).