Clau de Nell
Cuvée Violette
The Cuvée Violette is a blend of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon coming from 45-60 year old vines planted in silty-clay terroir, consisting of sandstone grit and red flint on tuffeau limestone. This wine is fermented naturally in the Domaines historic cellars in Anjou, and certified Biodynamic.
Demeter certified 100% Biodynamic. The Cabernet Franc vines are 45 years old and pruned mixed Guyot, while the Cabernet Sauvignon vines are 65 years old and Gobelet pruned. 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
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Aging
- 6 months in stainless steel vats.
- Alcohol
- 12.57%
Deep garnet color with purple reflections of great brilliance. Aromas are carried by ripe black fruits, blackcurrants and notes of spices and subtle aging. The palate is round and generous, with great creaminess. Concentrated, silky tannins and a mouth-watering finish.
James Suckling
95 Points
2021
"Enchanting nose with red berries, fresh violets, dried chili and raw cocoa at first followed by dried flowers, sandalwood and crushed peppercorns. Medium to full bodied with finely grained tannins. Charming with balance, precision and elegance yet it does not lack any intensity. It’s dense at the center with a core of wild berries, herbs and spices developing through the mid-palate. Spicy and vibrant with a transparent character. It’s velvety and restrained with a long developing finish."
— 2023
Wine Enthusiast
94 Points
2021
"This herbal Cabernet Franc (55%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (45%) blend craves your full-flavored dishes. The wine has a savory nose of rhubarb, marjoram, dried field grass, red plum and mushroom. On the palate the wine has flavors of damp earth, black olive and black cherry. This is a bottle you open and savor over an evening, not just during a first course."
— Reggie Solomon, 2024