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
- Upon arrival to the cellar the grapes are destemmed and transferred to vats for a natural fermentation with a 20-day maceration (without extraction). Gentle cap punching and limited pumping over follow. A slow and gentle pressing in a pneumatic press after fermentation with 12 months aging on the fine lees in Burgundy casks used 3-5 times, followed by 6 months in stainless steel vats before bottling.
- 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.
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
