Item #777662
Production 2790 cases
This Kirkland Signature 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape
Cuvee De Nalys is produced at Domaine de Nalys, one of the oldest and best-known
Domaines in the Southern Rhone. It has been in continuous existence since 1778.
Chateauneuf du Pape is known as the top appellation in France for the production of
Grenache and Syrah. Thirteen varietals can be used in the production of this wine, and
some are less desirable than others. The best Chateauneuf du Pape is dominated by
Grenache and Syrah such as found in this Kirkland Signature Chateauneuf du Pape, with
90% of the grapes from Grenache and Syrah. The vineyards in Chateauneuf du Pape are
completely covered with galets roules, large alpine drift boulders, with no vegetation. The
vines are pruned low to the ground to protect against the Mistral winds. The 2006 vintage
was characterized by low yields and average of 32hl/ha. Most growers felt the conditions
for 2006 were at the optimum, with little rainfall, and greater than normal photosynthesis.
The wines from Syrah, Grenache, Mouvedre and Cinsault were deep in color, have expressive aromas and excelent balance between fresh acidity and mellow tannins.
Winemaking
The wine was made in the classic Chateauneuf du Pape tradition with warm
fermentation in large neutral wood tanks. A small portion of the grapes underwent carbonic maceration to soften tannins and bring some bright fruit notes to
the aromatics and mouth-feel. Maturation extended beyond 16 months before
bottling which helped to add even greater depth, concentration and fully integrated flavors of red current and wild cherry, with softer tannins.
Wine
Kirkland Signature Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee de Nalys 2006
has great concentration and purity of structure with flavors of
red cherry, cassis, smoked meat with hints of white and black
pepper. The elegant ripe character of this Chateauneuf du Pape
is ready to drink and will evolve over the next ten years adding
subtle complex aromas and nuance.
