Château La Nerthe Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2020

Château La Nerthe, one of the oldest estates in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, is renowned for producing powerful and elegant wines that reflect the rich terroir of the region. Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2020 is a classic blend of Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, and Cinsault, sourced from the château’s organically farmed vineyards. The 2020 vintage benefitted from a warm growing season, yielding a wine with ripe fruit, concentration, and refined tannins, while maintaining the balance and complexity that define the best wines of this appellation.

The estate’s famous galets roulés (large, heat-retaining stones) and limestone soils impart minerality and structure to the wine, while Château La Nerthe’s traditional winemaking practices, including aging in large oak barrels, contribute to its elegance and age-worthiness.

Appearance: Deep ruby with purple highlights, showcasing its concentration and youth.

Aroma: The nose is expressive and complex, with ripe blackberries, cherries, and dark plums, layered with notes of Provençal herbs (garrigue), black pepper, and liquorice. As the wine opens, subtle hints of smoky cedar, leather, and dried flowers emerge, adding depth and richness to the bouquet.

Taste: Full-bodied and opulent, the palate offers lush flavours of ripe blackberries, dark cherries, and cassis balanced by savoury notes of thyme, rosemary, and a hint of black olive. The tannins are velvety yet firm, giving the wine structure, while a lively acidity keeps the fruit in balance and provides freshness. The earthy, spicy character of the wine is complemented by a touch of dark chocolate and spice from the oak aging.

Finish: Long and luxurious, with lingering notes of dark fruit, herbs, and a hint of spice. The tannins are polished, and the wine finishes with a beautiful combination of fruit and earthiness, promising excellent ageing potential.

Pairings: Spiced lamb ribs with burnt maple, parsley, hazelnut crumb, and Persian feta. The wine’s ripe fruit and herbaceous notes will pair wonderfully with the lamb’s rich, smoky flavours, while its acidity and tannins will balance the sweetness of the maple glaze.

Charred venison rack with mesquite, black cabbage, caramelised pearl onion, and parsley jus. The earthy, savoury complexity of the wine will enhance the gamey venison, and its structure will stand up to the richness of the dish.

Château La Nerthe Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2020 is a powerful yet refined wine, showcasing the best of this historic appellation. Its combination of rich fruit, complex aromatics, and structured tannins makes it perfect for pairing with robust, flavourful dishes. While enjoyable now, this wine will continue to develop beautifully over the next 10–15 years.