E. Guigal Chateau De Nalys Chateauneuf-Du-Pape Rouge 2016

The 2016 E. Guigal "Château de Nalys" Grand Vin is a monumental and intensely expressive red, marking the debut vintage of this historic estate under the Guigal family's ownership. Sourced from three exceptional terroirs—Nalys (27%), Bois Sénéchal (23%), and La Crau (50%)—this wine captures the diverse geology of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, from red sandstone to large round pebbles (galets). It offers an intense bouquet of ripe black cherries, blackberries, and raspberries, woven with sophisticated notes of exotic spices, incense, licorice, and sandalwood. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and velvety, featuring a beautiful composition of power and elegance with silky tannins and a vibrant mineral energy. Aged for 18 months in a combination of wood (30%) and concrete (70%), it concludes with an exceptionally long and noble finish.

96 Points - Wine Enthusiast

95 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

Destined to become Nalys's new flagship (unless the white version steals the show), the 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape Grand Vin is a blend of 59% Grenache, 32% Syrah, 5% Mourvedre, 3% Counoise and 1% Vaccarese. It's full-bodied and velvety, offering hints of vanilla and sandalwood, but there also are layers of dark cherry fruit. Subtle notes of cinnamon, clove and allspice add interest to the long, silky finish. It's an auspicious debut for the Guigal team.

93 Points - James Suckling

Very rich, multilayered Chateauneuf with ripe red-plum and dark-berry aromas. The palate has such intense and fresh, juicy-fruit drive. Long and focused finish. Drink or hold.

93 Points - Wine Spectator

This is a fleshy and dense offering, with layers of warm cassis, plum sauce and cherry preserve flavors seamlessly entwined, while warm fruitcake and melted red licorice notes fill in through the finish. There's a whiff of smoky tea at the very end, while the fruit plays out. Best from 2020 through 2034.