Château La Nerthe 2013 Châteauneuf-Du-Pape Blanc
The vineyard of the Castle Nerthe represents 92 hectares of the single supporter, certified in organic farming since 1998, when the 13 grape varieties of the appellation are planted. It is about one of the biggest vineyards of Châteauneuf du Pape (the New Pope’s castle). The land is there special. The majority of the vineyard is pebbly with high terraces, combined with clay, lime and loamy sands sprinkled with pebbles rolling down the slopes on the Southern exposure.
Today I have tried their Blanc wine, which is a combination of 4 grapes: 40% Grenache Blanc, 40% Roussanne, 10% Clairette and 10% Bourboulenc. Only about 300 cases of this gem was imported to the US so if you are lucky enough to see a bottle, grab it as it will disappear fast. Opening a bottle (be sure not to over chill as you will lose out on all of the complex flavors and aromas going on) I noticed wonderful aromas of green and stone fruits with a slight citrus notes. The palate shows firm fruit, apples, peaches and Asian pear, crisp with good balance of acid. The finish, about medium plus in length, leaves with a nutty earthy ending. I met with the wine distributor from Pasternak Wine Imports, who indicated this white wine can be enjoyed now, but if you put it down for a few years, the age will benefit the wine greatly. I was fortunate to grab several bottles so I will let some age develop before opening another bottle.
Cheers!