2019 Château de Nalys Saintes Pierres de Nalys Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rhone Valley 750 ml

Despite being the Rhône Valley’s most respected vigneron, there was one major jewel that eluded Marcel Guigal for over 50 years: his own Châteauneuf-du-Pape estate. 

Land doesn’t change hands often in Châteauneuf, and not just any vines would do for a perfectionist who already knows every cranny of the entire AOC. Finally, in 2017, after a 20-year search, the Guigals found their quarry. It was Château de Nalys, a prime parcel in the center of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape AOC, including vines in the legendary La Crau lieu-dit. 

When we visited Château de Nalys, it was easy to see what had made Marcel and Philippe Guigal fall in love at first sight. Yes, there is the stunning château, and the estate’s 400-year history. But it’s the limitless potential of the terroir that makes this property special, and fit right into the Guigal tradition of stratospheric quality.

Located in the heart of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation, Nalys features 120 acres spread over three vineyard plots, including one in La Crau, the renowned Châteauneuf terroir closely associated with Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe. The Nalys vineyard, packed with the red sandy clay soil known locally as saffres, furnishes freshness and silky texture, while the small stones and sand of Bois Sénéchal lend balance and precision. 

Containing nearly equal proportions from each plot, the 2019 Saintes Pierres’ blend is dominated by Grenache and Syrah, with smaller amounts of Cinsault, Muscardin, Counoise, and Mourvèdre. When we put on a dinner with the team at San Diego’s three-MICHELIN-star Addison, they served it alongside a delicious squab yakitori with peanut miso, pak choi, and tokyo turnips. We know it will elevate any fare you’re whipping up