Clau de Nell
Chenin Blanc
It was Anne-Claude Leflaive’s wish to have Chenin on the estate, an extension of her Bourguignon know-how. It was in 2012 that it was planted with the precious help of Claude and Lydia Bourguignon, world renown geologist. The idea was to produce great dry white wines destined for gastronomy. True to its principle, the vines were carefully selected and planted on clayey-limestone soil, which gives the wines a great minerality.
Demeter certified 100% Biodynamic. The 13 year old vines are Gobelet pruned for small yields of 40 hl/ha. 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.
- Region
- Loire Valley
- Appellation
- Loire
- Sub-Appellation
- IGP Val de Loire
- Varietal Composition
- Chenin Blanc
- Aging
- Whole cluster Chenin Blanc, slowly and gently pressed in a pneumatic press. Cold settling followed byion with native yeast in used oak barrels from Burgundy. Aged twelve months on fine lees in French oak, 1-5 times used Burgundy barrels, in ancient troglodyte cellars cut into the limestone hillside on the property and then 6 months in stainless steel vats.
- Alcohol
- 13.07%
The color is gold, accented by bright silver reflections. The aroma is filled with the scent of ripe white fruits and a noticeable woodiness. The taste is strong and direct, with a pleasing creamy texture. The finish is long, fresh, and has a hint of saltiness.
Wine Enthusiast
93 Points
2021
"This biodynamic Chenin Blanc made from organic grapes retains freshness while having complex notes. Lemon-gold in color, the wine has an aromatic nose of baked red apple, vanilla baking spice, quince, biscuit and freshly baked croissant. Concentration on the midpalate is underpinned by juicy acidity that runs through to the finish."
— Reggie Solomon, 2024
