Clau de Nell

Anne-Claude Leflaive, who died in 2015, was a leading figure in biodynamic viticulture in Burgundy, and she brought her celebrated methods to bear on the quality of Clau de Nell’s wines. Understanding and respecting the terroir are guiding principles at Domaine Clau de Nell, where the soils contain sandstone, flint, silty clay and limestone. For the Loire reds, winemaking favors gentle extraction, almost like an “infusion,” to impart a supple, velvety tannic structure to the wines. Aging takes place in barrels from Domaine Leflaive. Yields are deliberately kept very low, and the estate’s limited acreage means that only small quantities of wine are produced, making them rare. All vineyard work follows biodynamic principles and the lunar calendar. The range includes several cuvées for wine lovers to explore, including “Violette,” a blend of Cabernet Franc from vines more than 40 years old and Cabernet Sauvignon from 60-year-old vines, grown in silty clay soils over tuffeau limestone. Half is aged in Burgundy barrels for 12 to 18 months, while the other half is aged on fine lees. With a precise nose of black fruit, licorice and sweet spice, a fine structure and greater density on the palate than the classic Cabernet Franc cuvée, “Violette” is defined by chalky freshness. Its texture remains delicate, though its tannins are firmer. The finish is long, and the wine can be cellared for 8 to 10 years.
The 2015 vintage offers extra richness and sweetness on the mid-palate. The “Cabernet Franc” cuvée comes from vines more than 40 years old, grown in silty clay soils over tuffeau limestone. This Clau de Nell cuvée offers an open, complex bouquet, initially showing a hint of reduction and an earthy note before opening onto very fresh red berries, flowers, spices, pepper and fresh herbal notes. The palate is focused and exceptionally elegant in texture, with lively tannins and a superb, lingering chalky finish. The nose of the “Grolleau” cuvée is delightfully vibrant, with blueberry jam and an enticing peppery note. There is plenty of energy on the palate, leading to a beautifully fruit-driven, refreshing finish. Finally, “Les Fontenelles” is made entirely from Chenin grown on stony limestone soil. The wine spends 24 months on fine lees in Burgundy barrels that have held several previous vintages. With striking minerality on the nose, tension on the palate, and a vibrant, powerful character, this is a distinguished Chenin with complex persistence and a finish marked by refined bitterness. The entire Clau de Nell range is sure to appeal to lovers of great Anjou wines.

Looking to buy a bottle of Clau de Nell wine? Explore our selection of wines from the estate, along with other leading Loire producers such as Alain Lenoir, Antoine Sanzay, Bernard Baudry, Charles Joguet, Foreau, François Cotat, Pascal Cotat, Alphonse Mellot, Vacheron, Clos Rougeard, Coulée de Serrant, Didier Dagueneau, Edmond Vatan, Gérard Boulay, Guiberteau, Huet, Jérôme Bretaudeau, Philippe Alliet, Richard Leroy, Saint Nicolas, Stephane Bernaudeau, Vacheron and more.... Bottles, magnums…. With Vins et Millésimes, buying wine online has never been easier! Always 100% in stock, with fast shipping and the best prices!