In the heart of the prestigious AOC Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Château La Nerthe is crafting a new chapter of its 2023 vintage: the excitement of the harvest has given way to the patient magic of winemaking. Our cellar team is now dedicated to highlighting the personality of the harvested grapes. To do this, they rely on centuries-old expertise, inherited from our five centuries of history. This is an opportunity for us to share some winemaking secrets at Château La Nerthe, including those of our Ducos Cuvée, which perfectly embodies our long winemaking tradition…

Winemaking, or the Art of Fully Expressing Our Terroirs

“Know the technology to use it as little as possible.” This is Rémi Jean’s credo when it comes to turning must into wine. The vision of our Director nourishes the daily work of our team during winemaking. While the 1990s saw the oenologist imprint his style on the wines, this is no longer the case today. Quite the opposite.

In our cellars at Château La Nerthe, it is the terroir that must be revealed. The winemaker himself steps back behind the mark of nature and the vintage. We thus intervene as little as possible in making our Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines. Instead, we let the 57 plots that make up our 92-hectare vineyard speak: a true mosaic of characters, enriched by a superb range of 13 grape varieties. The parcel-based vinification of our white wines, for example, accurately reflects this goal: their signature freshness mirrors the quality of our soils and the benign influence of our natural springs…

Aging, the Final Touch to Enhance Every Aromatic Expression

The bespoke aging of our wines also stems from our desire to maintain the delicate harmony between the soils, the plants, and human touch. In this way, aging is an extension of our commitment in our Châteauneuf-du-Pape vineyards, where we blend organic viticulture with agroecology, as well as our art of winemaking.

Moreover, to reveal the soul of the vintage and our terroirs, we primarily use large wood volumes, like our foudres and demi-muids. These noble containers are complemented by a few small tanks and barrels, housed in our 16th-century cellars.

Each of these decisions is crucial in preserving the identity of our wines. You can explore these choices in more detail during an exciting visit to our vineyard, accompanied by a tasting of our Châteauneuf-du-Pape…

Perpetuating the Legacy of Winemaking at Château La Nerthe

To us, winemaking is more than just a production step. It represents a fabulous wine heritage that we are keen to protect. The Ducos Cuvée is thus one of the symbols of our centuries-old expertise.

Joseph Ducos: A Major Inspiration for Our Work

The Ducos Cuvée takes its name from Commander Joseph Ducos, who purchased Château La Nerthe in 1877 from the Tulle de Villefranche family. But at that time, the vineyard was devastated by phylloxera. Joseph Ducos devoted himself to finding a way to combat the parasitic aphid destroying all roots in its path. An eminent graduate of the Polytechnic, he decided to apply the work of the Montpellier School of Agriculture: he was thus the first to introduce grafted vines to Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

His perseverance was soon rewarded, and other regional winemakers quickly followed his successful example. Recognized by his peers, Joseph Ducos would later become mayor of the village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and then deputy of Vaucluse.

The Ducos Cuvée: A Tribute to Commander’s Winemaking Talents

Beyond his pivotal role in restoring our region’s vineyard, Joseph Ducos excelled in the art of winemaking.

Specifically, one of his “recipes,” based on ten grape varieties, became so emblematic that it led to the selection of the thirteen grape varieties of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation. Among these varieties are warm, mellow red grapes like Mourvèdre, Grenache, and Syrah, as well as elegant, fresh white grapes like Clairette and Picpoul.

The Ducos Cuvée is inspired by this iconic blend of wines. Our team crafts this experimental cuvée each year from the same ten Châteauneuf-du-Pape grape varieties. To continue passing down this tradition to future generations, the harvest is even pressed using a manual press, in the purest respect for the grape and our unique terroir…

Winemaking at Château La Nerthe, as well as aging, has always been the focus of our attention. This meticulous and patient care is something we invite you to experience if you visit Châteauneuf-du-Pape in winter: our team will then gladly guide you through our cellars and our history…

Agroecology and Viticulture: A Matter of Balance

The definition of agroecology can be summarized as environmentally friendly production systems based on existing functionalities within the ecosystem. In this sense, agroecology requires a deep understanding of agronomy.

The French wine industry has been organizing for several years to promote an agroecological transition in the vineyards. The French Institute of Vine and Wine, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and INRA, has established seven main themes to be addressed providing a clear framework for estates that want to commit to more sustainable viticulture. Day by day, with passion and care, Château La Nerthe considers each of these in its vineyard.

Preserving the Quality of Unique Terroir Soils

The vineyards of Château La Nerthe extend over remarkable terroirs within the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation. As the foundation of life in the vineyard, their soils must be protected. To prevent compaction, we work them thoughtfully, favoring tools that are as light as possible and limiting the frequency of mechanical intervention, such as plowing or weeding, known as griffonnage. We also establish plant cover composed of varied species chosen according to the needs of each plot.

In addition, Marine Albert, our Vineyard Manager, promotes the regeneration of our wine-growing soils. Specifically, she combines fertilization and plant cover to improve soil structure, biological activity, and richness, among other benefits, thus optimizing the potential of our terroirs.  Legumes are introduced into our plant cover: vetch, fava beans, peas, and clover. These plant families fix atmospheric nitrogen in the soil thus enriching it.

Finally, we work to limit the risks of water erosion, (meaning soil displacement during runoff), partly thanks to these plants which slow runoff and its impact. Water penetrates the soil more effectively along their roots, while soil particles aggregate around these same roots.

Protecting and Promoting Biodiversity in the Heart of the Vineyards

The fauna and flora populating the vineyards are an integral part of a precious ecosystem that Château La Nerthe cares for. Preserving this biodiversity allows us to strengthen our terroir and our identity.

To contribute to the full flourishing of life, we use plant cover, cultivate grass in the vineyard rows, practice eco-grazing with sheep on our plots during winter, and plant forest hedges and fruit trees (fig, plum, hazelnut, etc.), prioritizing local varieties.

Within the plots, the landscape dimension of biodiversity is supported by the creation of ponds or integrating nesting boxes for blue tits, bats, and owls – a way to provide shelter for protected species in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Bees are also at the center of our attention, with several beehives. To support these precious pollinators and participate in the protection of the environment, we sow honey flowers, as in our exceptional Cassagnes vineyard in the Côtes du Rhône.

Increasing the Use of Biocontrol in the Plots

Château La Nerthe persistently adapts its farming practices based on observations and evolving techniques. Methods that reduce the use of insecticides guide our teams in the plots. Among them, sexual confusion or mating disruption is used to fight grapevine moths: pheromone diffusers placed on vine rows keep these pests away.

Biological control is another way we reduce the impact of certain pests. By introducing parasitoid insects onto our plots who thrive at the expense of grape enemies.

In addition to playing an essential role in protecting biodiversity, nesting boxes, hedges, and ponds scattered throughout our vineyard also have a regulatory effect as they are teeming with birds and small animals that feed on pests.

Ensuring Water Resource Preservation in the Vineyard

Year after year, the vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape experience more intense and less frequent rains. Drought is thus at the forefront of tomorrow’s climate challenges, requiring resilient winemaking more than anything else.

This is why Château La Nerthe is committed to adapting its vineyard to these new water constraints through several actions: proper soil preparation before planting, choosing plant material that is more tolerant to drought, thoughtfully managing the canopy to utilize the benefits of its foliage effectively, and reasoned and precise irrigation through water stress measurement.

In addition, we collect as much rainwater as possible around our plots, having built drains and water retention basins to allow heavy rains to be channeled, thus limiting erosion. Water that does not immediately penetrate the soil is stored in ponds or ditches lining the vineyard before slowly seeping into the ground.

Selecting Plant Material Suited to Agroecological Challenges

Above all, we take into account the specificities of our terroirs’ soil and climate. Respect for pedoclimatic factors is critical to ensuring balanced viticulture and an accurate expression of the characteristics of our different appellations. You can discover these appelations during a visit to our vineyard.

The adaptation of plant material is also a lever to address tomorrow’s challenges. The plants in our new plantations come from a mass selection, with wide genetic diversity, for more resilience against diseases and pests.

Our tree and forest hedge plantations are made from plant material taken from the natural areas surrounding our plots, ensuring successful establishment and cohabitation with the vineyard.  We collaborate with a producer of wild plant materials who gathers and reproduces the most interesting plants from the surrounding areas, and we reintroduce them into our vineyard plots.

Adjusting Wine-Growing Practices to the Effects of Climate Change

In the vineyard at Château La Nerthe we adapt each of our farming methods to new climate challenges. To reduce our carbon footprint, reasoned soil tillage allows us to limit the passage of tractors and the release of CO2 from the soil into the atmosphere.

As for our choice of plant material, we prefer rootstocks that are more suitable to resist climate change and future droughts. And our plantations are composed of the region’s traditional grape varieties, which are more resilient to extreme temperatures.

Caring for Air and Atmosphere Quality

Château La Nerthe is committed to not burning any of its waste or plant residue (such as vine clippings). We also contribute to natural carbon sequestration by developing carbon sinks. We further increase carbon storage in the soil (by adding organic amendments, ground cover, mulch, and returning vine clippings to the soil) and biomass (by planting hedges and isolated trees).

Furthermore, as part of our constant improvement efforts, we are currently studying the additional recommendations from the French Institute of Vine and Wine to protect air and atmospheric quality.

Through each of these numerous actions, viticulture and agroecology merge at the heart of Château La Nerthe’s philosophy. This sensitivity to nature contributes to a better balance of ecosystems and makes all the difference in bringing high-quality grapes to life, so we may continue crafting exceptional wines, faithful to five centuries of excellence.

Château La Nerthe, an exceptional setting to enjoy the stunning winter landscapes of the Rhône Valley

Imagine this.  In the calm of winter, you leave the village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape heading south. In less than 2 km, you come upon an alley lined with cypresses, olive trees and holm oaks, before discovering a gorgeous park with magnificent plane trees and centuries-old pines. Nestled in the heart of this natural setting is the elegant 18^th century residence of Château La Nerthe.

You will remember the view from its terrace for a long time, as it is unparalleled in the Vaucluse. A true belvedere, from where you can see the Rhône to the west and to the east the impressive Mont Ventoux, the emblematic summit of Provence. You can also admire the Châteauneuf-du-Pape vineyards below, especially those of our Clos de Beauvenir, or catch a glimpse of the ancient city of Popes in the distance.

And if you thought that our Rhone vineyard is motionless in the winter season, think again! During your visit, you may come across our winemakers busy pruning the vines. You will also learn about some of the Château’s commitments to biodiversity. You will be able to spot our nesting boxes designed to shelter chickadees, bats and owls when the temperatures drop, or meet some of our special guests: the sheep! Their grazing, mostly between January and March, enables the eco-friendly maintenance of the estate’s plots.

Several offers for tasting exceptional Castel-Papal wines, in the heart of historical cellars

After savoring this idyllic setting, you may want to warm up at bit. What perfect timing! Now it’s time to explore the estate’s cellars, where our bottles are stored, and immerse yourself in our know-how: a fascinating journey into five centuries of history, deeply intertwined with that of the village. To cater to different tastes, we offer guests 3 different visiting experiences, followed by Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine tastings.

• The “Discovery” Experience, with a 1-hour guided tour and a tasting of 5 of our wines, including the remarkable Cuvée des Cadettes.
• The “Terroir” Experience, with a 1:30 guided tour and the opportunity to discover 7 of our wines, including a rare old vintage, as well as the iconic Cuvée des Cadettes and Clos de Beauvenir in white.
• The “Passion” Experience, with a 2-hour private tour, including a candlelit tasting in our secret cellar, and a tasting with our sommelier featuring 8 wines from the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation. Among them, Les Clavelles, our most exclusive cuvée…

In short, these are privileged moments to be experienced over the weekend or while on vacation, or to be given to your loved ones in the form of gift certificates!

The surroundings are rich in activities to complete your winter visit to the cellars of Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

Thanks to the ideal location of Château La Nerthe, you can easily complete your itinerary, even in the coldest weather. After enjoying our wines, you can seek refuge in one of the delicious restaurants of Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

Among the best addresses in the area, there is the Hostellerie du Château des Fines Roches, a gastronomic restaurant that will surprise you with its incredible view of our estate. La Mère Germaine is also worth the trip,  to either their Michelin-starred establishment or their bistro with its warm and friendly atmosphere. At the top of the village, Le Verger des Papes creatively reinterprets the terroir, while La Maisouneta and La Mule du Pape offer a cuisine that is both simple and refined.

Finally, for history buffs, the region is full of activities to do in the winter: on the one hand, you must visit Châteauneuf-du-Pape and its must-see tourist sites, such as the remains of the Palais des Papes and Notre-Dame de l’Assomption church. On the other hand, you can discover the magnificent Palais des Papes in Avignon (where we recommend the Michelin-starred restaurant La Mirande for lunch or dinner), or admire the Théâtre Antique and the Arc de Triomphe in Orange…

So, are you ready to explore our Châteauneuf-du-Pape cellar this winter? And if you are looking for inspiration for another weekend mixing wine and tourism, a visit to the Château de Corcelles vineyard in Beaujolais also promises an unforgettable day!

This year we are proud to have six new talents on our team (from left to right): Charlotte Serve, Claire Commaille, Malaurie Lorentz, Pauline Comin, Elorine Baroni, and Chloé Fraisse.

Charlotte Serve – 34 years old – Native of Rhone
During her ten years of experience in wine export in the USA, Charlotte had the opportunity to make wine in New Zealand, Burgundy, and the Loire Valley. In 2020 the Trump tax and Covid pushed her to switch to the technical side. She then undertook a National Professional Degree (BTS) in viticulture and enology to perfect her already well-advanced knowledge. She then realized her 4th vinification at Château La Nerthe before starting her training as a tractor driver with the ultimate goal of becoming a vineyard manager, then estate manager.

Claire Commaille – 33 years old – Native of Burgundy
Like Charlotte, Claire entered the world of wine through the commercial sector. After ten years of experience in export (English market) and with private customers, she decided to focus on the technical aspect that she has already had the opportunity to experience in several countries around the world: Australia, New Zealand, Germany, Italy, Portugal and in different French wine regions like Burgundy, Rhône, and the Loire. She has joined the Château La Nerthe team for the season before embarking on a National Professional Degree (BTS) in viticulture, enology, or Agricultural Company Management (BP REA), with plans to open her own wine estate.

Malaurie Lorentz – 24 years old – Native of Alsace
After an Agri-food degree and a bachelor’s in chemistry, punctuated by several experiences in an enological analysis laboratory and cellars in Alsace and Bordeaux, Malorie validated her National Diploma in Oenology and joined the Château La Nerthe team. After the season, she will set sail for New Zealand before returning to the northern Rhone Valley, where she wants to specialize in viticulture and enology consulting.

Pauline Comin – 24 years old – Native of Bordeaux
After a National Professional Degree (BTS) in agricultural, biological and biotechnological analysis with a minor in enology, Pauline joined the Bordeaux School of Agricultural Engineering specializing in viticulture and enology. She is currently completing her final internship at Château La Nerthe to complete her thesis on “decision-making tools,” aimed at reducing our environmental impact. She has also just obtained the National Diploma of Enology from Bordeaux. After the season, she would like to experience winemaking in the southern hemisphere.

Elorine Baroni – 20 years old – Native of the southern Rhone Valley
A student at the Avignon Agribusiness Agronomy Engineering School, Elorine is doing a three-year work-study at Château La Nerthe. Her main mission is managing the CSR project, but she also assists in the cellar.

Chloé Fraisse – 27 years old – Native of Languedoc
Chloé started her career in medical social work and eventually headed for the world of wine. In parallel with her National Professional Diploma (BTS) in viticulture and enology, she completed her work-study as an employee of a wine estate, allowing her to gain experience in the technical space (viticulture and enology) as well as the administrative and commercial aspects of the business. After an additional experience in a wine estate focusing on the vine and the cellar, she joined the Château La Nerthe team for the 2022 vinifications. Her goal is to integrate an agricultural engineering school and experience the different wine regions of France and the world by juggling two annual vinifications between the southern and northern hemispheres, to then become a cellar master.

Our three vineyards in the Rhone Valley have had completely different harvests this year. Nevertheless, the summer heat and rain at the end of August and September meant that the berries were perfectly ripe on each property.

While the harvest at Château La Nerthe and Prieuré Montézargues were both less spread out over time than in previous years, those in our Côtes-du-Rhône vineyard “Les Cassagnes de La Nerthe” were scattered because of the rainy spells that animated this harvest season.

A hailstorm hit Château La Nerthe in the afternoon of August 14, which afflicted part of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation. This event caused yield loss, which was significant depending on the plot. Fortunately, the mistral wind and hot temperatures quickly dried the affected berries, and we were able to start the harvest immediately, thanks to the early ripening from the scorching summer. The normal harvesting order was only slightly modified.

Cassagnes de La Nerthe vineyard resulted in a small and very qualitative crop. The white grape varieties developed quite early, as did the Grenache noir, whose harvest was closer than usual to that of the syrah. This year has been particularly favorable for our flagship Côtes-du-Rhône grape varieties, Grenaches blanc and noir.

In Tavel, at Prieuré de Montézargues, we have rarely had such a healthy and early harvest! We picked in the usual order, starting with the grenache blanc, then the grenache noir, cinsault, and syrah, and ending with grape varieties like clairette or bourboulenc, whose skin is more resistant to weather hazards. The berries are quite small and concentrated, and the quality is there!

The entire harvest promises exquisite wines, concentrated, fruity, and generous.