Cabernet Franc, Anjou AOC – 2017
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Vineyard Profile
- Cultivation: Covering the vine stock with soil in autumn, plowing-down in spring, tilling and allowing natural grass to grow between the rows; biodynamic practices include infusions and plant decoctions applied to the vineyards according to the lunar calendar. DEMETER Certified 100% Biodynamic.
- Size: 5 hectares (12.35 acres)
- Vine Age: 35-45 years
- Soil: Silty-clay terroir, consisting of sandstone grit and red flint on tuffeau (limestone)
- Training: Guyot Mixte pruning system
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Vintage Report
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The dry and mild winter of 2017 led to early budbreak. Two days of frost in April impacted yields. Spring came quickly providing for an early growing season. The hot summer allowed for ideal fruit maturation and the mild start of fall allowed for opulent acidity to be retained until harvest.
- Harvest Date(s): Cabernet Franc harvested between September 28 and October 2nd, hand-picked in 12-kilogram (26-pound) boxes and sorted in the vineyard
- Yields: 35 hectoliters/hectare (2.5 tons/acres)
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Vinification
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Destemmed grapes were fermented using native yeasts; average o f 30 days maceration without extraction; gentle cap punching; limited pump-overs; and infusion techniques at temperatures of 18 C to 25 C (64 F to 77 F). Slow and gentle pressing in a pneumatic press.
- Aging: 12 months on fine lees in French oak casks, used five times before, aged in ancient troglodyte cellars cut into the limestone hillside on the property, followed by six months in a stainless steel vat.
- Bottled: Bottled without filtration or fining on April 29, 2019, a “flower day”
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Technical Information
- Varietal Composition: 100% Cabernet Franc
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Tasting Notes
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Reviews
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Clau de Nell Cabernet Franc, Anjou AOC – 2017 – Wine Enthusiast – 93 Points
From the estate created by the late Anne-Claude Leflaive of Domaine Leflaive in Burgundy, this wine is beautifully structured, perfumed and ripe. Smoky tannins link with generous berry fruits to give a wine that is still aging and deserves more time. Drink from 2022.