Sommelier’s Selection, May edition

Château La Nerthe Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc 2023

The Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc 2023 is a classic, gastronomic blend of Roussanne, Grenache Blanc and Clairette, offering both structure and aromatic finesse. The grapes are hand-harvested at optimal ripeness to preserve balance and expression. They are gently pressed in a pneumatic press for three hours, followed by a 24-hour settling period. Fermentation takes place at low temperatures to preserve aromatics: Roussanne and Grenache ferment in oak barrels, while Clairette and Bourboulenc are vinified partly in stainless steel and partly in oak. The wine then matures on its lees for approximately nine months, with the final blend assembled just prior to bottling.

In the glass, the wine reveals ripe white fruit such as pear and peach, complemented by citrus and delicate white floral notes. Subtle hints of anise and fennel add complexity, alongside a gentle touch of oak and a creamy texture. Partial ageing on oak and lees provides depth and richness, while maintaining freshness and balance.

The 2023 vintage in the Southern Rhône is defined by a more refined and fresher style. A warm, sunny growing season was balanced by cooler nights approaching harvest, resulting in wines with aromatic precision and an elegant balance between ripeness and freshness.

Country

France

Grape

Roussanne, Grenache Blanc and Clairette

The sommelier's tip

This wine would go excellent with many types of food. Think of white meats, pork or chicken breast with some rich elements that really complement the rich flavors of the wine. Or grilled halibut with green asparagus, green peas and really nice beurre blanc sauce.

Graci Etna Rosso Feudo di Mezzo 2024

Feudo di Mezzo is one of the most renowned contrade (cru vineyards) of Etna. The wine is based on Nerello Mascalese, the flagship grape of the region. Fermentation takes place with indigenous yeasts in conical oak vats, followed by an extended skin maceration. The wine then matures for 18 months in oak barrels, during which spontaneous malolactic fermentation occurs, contributing to its texture, depth and subtle toasted notes.

In the glass, the wine shows vibrant red fruit of cherry, raspberry and wild strawberry, complemented by floral notes of rose petals, dried herbs and a delicate smoky nuance reflecting its volcanic origin.

The structure is refined, with silky tannins, lively acidity and a long, mineral-driven finish.

What makes this wine particularly compelling:

• Light in structure
• Yet intense and layered in flavour

The 2024 vintage on Etna is characterised by a balanced and classic growing season, where altitude and cool nights played a crucial role. For Nerello Mascalese, this results in a vintage that emphasises finesse over power, offering elegance, precision and excellent drinkability.

Country

Italy

Grape

Nerello Mascalese

The sommelier's tip

This wine can be paired with many different things. You can drink it as an aperitif with a beautiful plate of charcuterie. Different cold cuts of different types of beef or pork. Slightly chilled it can be served as an entree wine, for example with a nice steak tartare or some poultry or white meats. Or for main, with a nice piece of beef.