WINERY: Clau de Nell, named for the previous owners Claude and Nelly, is located in the Loire Valley wine region of Anjou and has been in existence for over 100 years. The vineyards were fully converted to biodynamic cultivation in 2000 and the property was purchased by Anne-Claude Leflaive and Christian Jacques in 2008, appointing Sylvain Potin as their biodynamic viticulturalist and winemaker. The property is comprised of 10 hectares of vines on a gently sloping hill surrounded by open countryside. The highest point of Clau de Nell offers a glimpse of the Loire in the distance; from here, an uninterrupted view unveils the sky and the river on the horizon, as well as rows of Grolleau, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Chenin Blanc. A project built on immense passion, Christian Jacques famously quotes “We have not chosen Clau de Nell, so much as Clau de Nell has chosen us!”

WINE: 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. 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.

The winter season had high rainfall and average temperatures. March was cold causing late bud break in April, with several frosts, especially from 5th to 12th. May’s low temperatures slowed vegetation growth leading to a phenological shift. Record-breaking rain fell in May and June. Late flowering in mid-June was quick due to mild temperatures. The summer was cooler with normal rainfall. The late harvest had good conditions but low yields due to weather events, though grape health was satisfactory and the juice quality was good.

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.

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.