Chenin Blanc, Val de Loire IGP – 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.
- Soil: Silty-clay terroir, consisting of sandstone grit and red flint on tuffeau (limestone) Age of vines: 6 years
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Vintage Report
- Harvest Date(s): Chenin Blanc harvested from September 17 - 20, hand-picked in 12-kilogram (26-pound) boxes and sorted in the vineyard
- Yields: 26 hectoliters/hectare (≈2 tons/acre)
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Vinification
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Whole cluster, slowly and gently pressed in a pneumatic press. Cold settling followed by long fermentation with native yeast in aged oak barrel from Burgundy.
Pruning: Guyot Mixte pruning system
- Aging: 12 months on fine lees in French oak casks, 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 30 a “flower day”
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Technical Information
- Varietal Composition: 100% Chenin Blanc
Images
Reviews
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Clau de Nell Chenin Blanc, Val de Loire IGP – 2017 – Wine Enthusiast – 93 Points
This biodynamic estate was started in 2008 by Anne-Claude Leflaive and continued by her husband, Christian Jacques. But its history is the soil they recognized as perfect for excellent Chenin Blanc. This wine captures intense fruit and lemon and almond flavors, with a touch of oxidation that opens everything up. Drink this still-young wine from 2022.