Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge AOC 2017

Wine information
Château La Nerthe draws its full potential from the rich soil variation of its vineyard site. A colourful mosaic of rolled pebbles, clay-limestone, sandy loam and sandstone serves as the fertile subsoil. Careful hand-harvesting and meticulous selection are the first steps in creating this special wine. The grapes are then destemmed and ferment spontaneously after a cold maceration. A process of regular extraction by pumping over and pigeage follows, culminating in a three-week maceration period. The malolactic fermentation takes place in both wooden vats and stainless steel tanks. An ageing period of twelve months precedes the final blend - 40% Grenache Noir, 35% Syrah, 18% Mourvèdre and 7% Cinsault. Another six months later, the wine is in the bottle.

Visuals
A magnificent colour, comparable to a deep, glowing ruby red.

Bouquet
The overture is intense, marked by violets, then red-fruited aromas like cherries, plums, fine raspberry jam and blood oranges. Spice aromas like cinnamon and cardamom, paired with black pepper and a hint of smoke, complete the profile.

Palate
This red wine is extremely dynamic on the palate - juicy and spicy with a twist of peppery flavour. The garrigue shapes it with a palette of wild herbs and leather aromas, giving it a distinctly Mediterranean character. Its solid, well-polished tannins support the round, dense and powerful profile and give it an impressive length with a stimulating finish. It promises excellent ageing.

Food recommendations
Try it with a hearty Provençal beef stew or duck breast with red fruit sauce. A hearty ratatouille would also be an excellent addition.