Winery Heritage & Terroir
Founded in 1560, Château La Nerthe stands among the pioneers of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Nestled on rolling hills of galets roulés (large, round pebbles), the estate’s historic vineyards benefit from exceptional drainage and heat retention, concentrating the fruit’s ripeness and amplifying the appellation’s signature garrigue aromas.
Grape Composition & Vinification
Blend
Cuvée Clavelles is predominantly Grenache (85%), complemented by Mourvèdre (10%) and a touch of Syrah (5%).
Harvest & Fermentation
Hand-harvested grapes are sorted on arrival before gentle destemming. Indigenous yeast fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, followed by a 12-month ageing period—70% in large, seasoned oak foudres and 30% in French barriques—to add subtle spice and structural finesse.
Tasting Profile
Color: Deep ruby with violet hues.
Nose: Lush aromas of blackberry compote, wild thyme, rosemary and a delicate peppery note.
Palate: Full-bodied and richly textured, unveiling layered flavors of blackcurrant, bitter chocolate and garrigue, leading to a vibrant, mineral-tinged finish.
Food Pairing & Serving
- Roasted leg of lamb with herb crust
- Duck breast in cherry reduction
- Aged Comté or Beaufort cheeses
Serve at 16-18 °C (60-64 °F) after decanting for 1–2 hours.
Aging Potential
Thanks to its ripe tannic backbone and balanced acidity, Cuvée Clavelles will gracefully develop additional tertiary notes—dried fruit, leather and forest floor—over the next decade.
