Red Wine Chateau La Nerthe Chateauneuf du Pape 2017. One of the oldest estates in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Chateau La Nerthe dates back at least as far as 1560 when it was originally founded by the Tulle de Villefranche family. Today the property has over 92 hectares of vineyards split into 57 different plots planted on sandy clay soils and large galets stones which are so typical of the region. Although Grenache makes up some 62% of the plantings, all 13 of the varieties permitted in Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines are planted here with an average vine age of over 40 years old. To create their classic Châteauneuf-du-Pape red the grapes are carefully hand picked and sorted to ensure quality control. Once in the winery the fruit is fermented in vats and then aged in large oak casks and barrels for 12 months before the final blend is created. The wine then rests for another 6 months before bottling. The first thing you’ll notice when you pour out a glass of this Châteauneuf-du-Pape is the striking deep inky red hue and enticing aromas of blackcurrants, dried violets, and ripe figs. On the palate there’s a cascade of brooding dark berries followed by more savoury notes of cedar, spice, and dried herbs from the oak ageing. The excellent balance and poise combined with tannic power makes this a great match for rich red meat dishes like stews, braised meats, or game.
2017
Red Wine Chateau La Nerthe Chateauneuf du Pape 2017
Red Wine Chateau La Nerthe Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee des Cadettes 2017. Decant 1 hour before serving. Founded by the Tulle de Villefranche family back in 1560, Chateau La Nerthe is one of the oldest and most prestigious estates in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. In total the property has 92 hectares under vine which are split into 57 distinct plots to give the winemakers maximum control over blending and choosing only the best fruit from each vintage. This special cuvee is made with selected fruit from the chateau’s very oldest vineyards planted on a plot known as Cadettes”. These 80 year old vines are predominantly Grenache along with some Syrah and a dash of Mourvedre. The fruit is carefully picked by hand and vinified together in a wooden tank before being transferred to a combination of large oak casks and new oak barrels for 12 months to mature. Attractive hints of leather, sweet spice, and luscious dark berries dominate on the nose, while the first sip reveals a generous full body, robust tannins, and a long finish seasoned with plenty of cedar, smoked meat, and toast. The bold flavour profile make this a great wine to cellar for a decade or two more, although it can also be savoured now alongside a rich venison or beef stew or barbecued ribs.
2017
Red Wine Chateau Malartic Lagraviere 2017. Decant 1 hour before serving. Chateau Malartic Lagraviere in Graves was previously owned by the Laurent- Perrier Champagne house up until 1997 when it was bought by Belgian couple Michele and Alfred-Alexandre Bonnie. The couple opted to work with renowned consultant winemaker Michel Rolland to improve the quality of the chateau’s wines and raise it to a new level of excellence. This is their Grand Vin that’s typically composed of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Merlot and Cabernet Franc. The fruit is fermented in a combination of wooden vats and stainless steel tanks before being transferred to 50% new oak barrels for 15 months of ageing. The classic Malartic Lagraviere style tends to be elegant and well-balanced for their red wines with a great potential to develop beautifully in the cellar over a decade or more. The nose is bursting with dark fruit aromas including cassis, blackberry and dark cherry, while the first sip reveals a solid structure, dense tannins, and a well-developed structure that will help this wine age well. The finish is long and complex, with hints of spice and toast from the oak mingling with luscious berry notes.
2017