Nalys, Domaine de
Summary
Domaine de Nalys is a historic Châteauneuf-du-Pape estate spanning 50 hectares across three distinct terroirs of galets roulés, sand, and limestone, now owned by the Guigal family who produce both red wines (primarily from Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre) and whites from all thirteen permitted varieties. Their winemaking combines traditional hand-harvesting with modern temperature-controlled fermentation, aging their Grand Vin in a combination of oak barrels and concrete vessels while maintaining the estate's distinctive character that dates back to 1633.
Heritage & Leadership
Domaine de Nalys stands as one of the oldest estates in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, with records dating back to the 17th century. The estate's documented history begins in 1633, marking nearly four centuries of continuous wine production in this prestigious southern Rhône appellation. In 2017, a significant transition occurred when the Guigal family, already well-established in the northern Rhône, acquired Domaine de Nalys from Groupama Rhône-Alpes Auvergne, which had owned the property since 1976.
The acquisition represented the Guigal family's first entry into Châteauneuf-du-Pape, expanding their holdings beyond their traditional base in Ampuis. Today, Philippe Guigal oversees winemaking operations, bringing the family's technical expertise and quality-focused approach to the estate. The property maintains its distinct identity while benefiting from the Guigal family's resources and commitment to expressing the unique terroir of Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
Vineyards & Wines
Domaine de Nalys encompasses 50 hectares of vineyards spread across three distinct sectors within Châteauneuf-du-Pape. The estate's holdings are divided between the Grand Vin vineyard near the château, Saintes Pierres to the west, and Bois Sénéchal to the east. This distribution provides access to the appellation's diverse soil types, including the characteristic galets roulés (large rounded stones), sandy soils, and limestone.
The vineyards are planted with all thirteen grape varieties permitted in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. For red wines, Grenache dominates at approximately 59%, followed by Syrah (18%), Mourvèdre (14%), and smaller percentages of Counoise, Vaccarèse, Terret Noir, and Muscardin. White varieties include Roussanne, Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Bourboulenc, Picpoul, and Picardan, allowing for the production of both red and white Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines.
The estate produces several cuvées, including the flagship Grand Vin de Nalys (red and white), the Saintes Pierres de Nalys (red and white), and special selections in exceptional vintages. The red Grand Vin typically blends Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre with smaller amounts of other varieties, while the white Grand Vin features Roussanne, Grenache Blanc, and Clairette.
Philosophy & Practice
Domaine de Nalys employs a meticulous approach to viticulture and winemaking that respects traditional Châteauneuf-du-Pape methods while incorporating modern precision. In the vineyards, each plot receives tailored attention based on its specific soil composition, exposure, and grape variety. Harvest is conducted by hand, with careful sorting to ensure only optimal fruit enters the winery.
For red wine production, the estate practices partial destemming, with the percentage varying by vintage and grape variety. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, allowing for precise extraction management. Aging protocols differ by cuvée: the Grand Vin spends approximately 18 months in a combination of oak barrels (30% new) and concrete vessels, while the Saintes Pierres sees less new oak influence.
White wines undergo fermentation in a combination of stainless steel tanks and oak barrels. The Grand Vin Blanc ages for about 8 months with regular bâtonnage (lees stirring) to develop complexity and texture, while maintaining freshness.
Since the Guigal acquisition, the estate has invested in both vineyard management and cellar equipment, focusing on enhancing quality while preserving the distinctive character that has defined Domaine de Nalys for centuries. The winemaking approach emphasizes balance, seeking to express the full potential of each vineyard site within the broader context of Châteauneuf-du-Pape's storied terroir.