100% Cabernet Franc - Biodynamic

"On the nose it is flinty, tarry and minerally, with fresh berry fruit and touches of peppercorn funk, juniper botanicals and damp earth. It’s medium-bodied and linear, with fine, fresh tannins and a pristine, juicy finish. Authentic with a savory touch. Vivid and succulent, with a bright character throughout." -James Suckling

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.

Clau de Nell, in Anjou’s Loire Valley, has over a century of history. Converted to biodynamic farming in 2000, it was purchased in 2008 by Anne-Claude Leflaive and Christian Jacques, with Sylvain Potin as winemaker. The 10-hectare hillside estate grows Grolleau, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chenin Blanc, offering sweeping views of the Loire. As Christian Jacques says, “We did not choose Clau de Nell—Clau de Nell chose us.”

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.

Natural fermentations of some or all whole cluster bunches occur in Clau de Nell's new state-of-the-art cellar (pictured above). The grapes are gently pressed in pneumatic press and aged in the ancient troglodyte cellars cut into the limestone hillside on the property (pictured above). After blending, the wines are aged for an additional six months in stainless steels vats before bottling.