Other vintages

Leading off the 2019s from bottle, the 2019 Châteauneuf Du Pape Saintes Pierres De Nalys has a focused, straight, elegant profile as well as impressive strawberry and cherry fruits, notes of peppery herbs and violets, medium body, fine tannins, and a great finish. It's not as rich or concentrated as the Grand Vin, but it has a wonderful sense of purity and elegance, and it's already drinking nicely.

The final blends had been made at Nalys, although the wine was scheduled to be bottled after my visit. The 2019 Chateauneuf du Pape Saintes Pierres is fruity and ripe, with scents of mint, black cherries and purple raspberries. Full-bodied and velvety textured, it finishes with ample length and a touch of licorice. Tasted twice (once blind), with consistent notes.

Brilliant violet. Intensely perfumed black raspberry and cherry aromas are complemented by suggestions of candied flowers and baking spices. Stains the palate with juicy, spice-laced red and blue fruit preserve flavors that are lifted and sharpened by a smoky mineral element. At once lively and concentrated, finishing very long and spicy, with supple tannins and lingering florality.