One of the most inspired signatures of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the 2018 E. Guigal Château de Nalys Châteauneuf-du-Pape Grand Vin embodies a couture vision of the Southern Rhône. Heir to a varied and historic terroir, it draws its nobility from three legendary sites, La Crau, Bois Sénéchal and Nalys, and from a parcel selection of rare exacting standards. The blend, built around Grenache and Syrah, is enriched with supporting varieties to carve an aromatic framework of great depth. The vines, averaging 45 years, deliver concentrated fruit, supported by controlled yields typical of the appellation. In conversion to organic farming, this Grand Vin asserts a precise, noble style, praised by critics for its structure, balance and persistence. The robe, dark and dense, opens on aromas of red and black fruit lifted by subtle spices, before a generous palate with silky tannins that combines power, grace and intensity. A characterful cuvée, crafted for the table, for ageing and for memorable shared moments.

Assemblage et vinification

This Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a blend mainly composed of Grenache and Syrah, complemented by touches of Mourvèdre, Counoise and Vaccarèse. The grapes come from three exceptional terroirs that interact, each bringing structure, brightness and complexity in turn. Careful berry selection, respect for the fruit and precise extraction guide the winemaking to preserve the silky texture, the natural brightness of the bouquet and the identity of the vintage. The élevage, carried out with the mastery that has made the house of E. Guigal renowned, aims for harmony rather than ostentation, to deliver a wine of great composure, refined length and exemplary mouthfeel.

Notes de dégustation

• Appearance : Deep red with garnet highlights, visually dense, announcing intense, perfectly ripe material, edged with a glossy sheen that attests to the purity of the blend.
• Nose : Attractive expression of red and black berries—raspberry, blackberry and blackcurrant—combined with delicate spices. Subtle floral nuances and a sense of tertiary depth in the background compose a precise, nuanced bouquet.
• Palate : Broad, caressing attack, silky tannins with a polished grain, generous mid-palate without heaviness, balance between power and freshness, and a long, savoury finish with spicy and fruity persistence.

Serving temperature and tips

Serve this Châteauneuf-du-Pape Grand Vin between 16 and 18°C in large tulip-shaped glasses to promote the development of the bouquet. Early aeration or opening 1 hour before serving will help soften the tannin texture and enhance aromatic complexity. Store bottles on their side, away from light, in a cool, healthy cellar to preserve the wine's integrity and support its calm evolution over time.

Food pairings

• Aperitifs : fine charcuterie, mature ham, Nyons olive tapenade on warm focaccia.
• Starters : game terrine, warm pigeon salad, pan-seared foie gras with roasted figs.
• Main courses : herb-crusted rack of lamb, braised beef chuck, roast pigeon with reduced jus, roasted root vegetables.
• Cheeses : 24-month Comté, Salers, sheep's milk tomme, matured Brie.
• Desserts : thin fig tart, spiced poached pears, minimally sweet dark chocolate dessert.

Tasting occasions

This Grand Vin is the natural companion for moments that matter:

• A gastronomic dinner where fine cuisine meets a top-tier red.
• A family celebration calling for a bottle with generosity and style.
• A connoisseur's gift to enrich a cellar and leave a lasting, elegant impression.

Specifications

• Name : 2018 E. Guigal Château de Nalys Châteauneuf-du-Pape Grand Vin
• Appellation : Châteauneuf-du-Pape AOC
• Type : Red wine
• Vintage : 2018
• Grape varieties : Grenache 59%, Syrah 32%, Mourvèdre 5%, Counoise 3%, Vaccarèse 1%
• Vineyard origin : Nalys 27%, La Crau 50%, Bois Sénéchal 23%
• Alcohol : 14.5 to 15.5%
• Farming : conversion to organic agriculture
• Yields : low, typical of the appellation, approx. 35 hl/ha
• Volume : 75 cl