Les Cassagnes de La Nerthe Côtes du Rhône Villages 2022

Les Cassagnes de La Nerthe is the Côtes du Rhône Villages red from Château La Nerthe, the historic Châteauneuf-du-Pape estate in the southern Rhône of France. It blends Grenache, Mourvèdre and Syrah, the classic southern Rhône trio, farmed organically. The region's warm Mediterranean climate and free-draining stony, clay-limestone soils ripen Grenache fully, giving generous red fruit and a supple texture, while the mistral wind keeps the vineyards dry and healthy. Warm ripening builds the ripe fruit and rounded body of the style. This wine is aged nine months in stainless steel rather than oak, a neutral, airtight vessel that locks in fresh, vivid fruit and keeps the wine bright and unoaked. The colour is bright ruby. The nose is fruit-forward, with red berries, cherry and plum over black pepper and dried garrigue herbs. The palate is medium to full, juicy and rounded, with soft tannins, fresh acidity and a peppery, herbal finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees. It suits grilled lamb, beef and pork.