Chateau La Nerthe, of course, is a Chateauneuf du Pape estate owned by the Richard family. They make this CDR Village wine from excellent 40-year-old vineyards on sandy and limestone soil 600 feet above sea level. It's a blend of Grenache (50%), Syrah (40%), Mourvedre (8%) and other varietals (2%), all organic grapes. The wine is aged on its fine lees in stainless steel for nine months, a process more commonly used for white than red wines.
Bright ruby, deeper and darker than I expect and even some purple tints. Very aromatic: cherries, red berries, currants--ripe and lovely. Grenache shines. The fruit on the palate is not quite as expressive or forward, but the tannins are supple enough to enjoy now or later. I think it might have benefited from longer aeration tonight. My score 17.5. Retail price is $20.
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