Clau de Nell | Loire | Grolleau IGP | 2019 | 750ml | bio

Description

Product description for Clau de Nell Grolleau IGP 2019 (bio)

Information about the wine, Christoph Raffelt, December 7, 2020

Grolleau is an indigenous Loire grape variety, mostly used in a residually sweet Rosé d’Anjou. The variety was almost never cultivated as a single variety until Claude and Nelly, the founders of Domaine Clau de Nell, did so and demonstrated that it could produce a wine of great character that was as authentic as it was elegant and worthy of ageing. The vines for this Grolleau are around 55 years old, but more have been planted in recent years. They grow in loamy, silty soil on sandstone and in red flint on tuffeau (limestone). The yield is just 25 hl/ha. The grapes were harvested by hand in 12-kilo crates. They were destemmed and fermented for 30 days with only occasional pumping over. Thirty percent of the wine was then aged for twelve months on the fine lees in Burgundian pièces (five to seven-year-old barrels), and a further 70% was aged in large foudres. The cuvée then matured for a further six months in stainless steel.

Color

Dense purple, violet reflections.

Nose

It appears deep and dark. Clau de Nell’s Grolleau displays black cherries, blackberries, and blueberries. Lots of licorice, dark chocolate, and warm leather. Cinnamon, juniper, black pepper, and eucalyptus clearly characterize it. In the background, there is a woody note reminiscent of currant bush wood. Dried blackberry leaves and green tea round it off.

Palate

Typical of a Loire Rouge, the ingenious combination of juiciness, tannin, and minerality is fascinating. Full of fruit, its character creates desire and flow. The tannins are restrained and pleasant. It caresses the palate as if wrapped in silk. Velvety and cool at the same time, it coats the mouth. Wonderful. Full of elegance and depth. The dark berry aromas and its diverse spices shine through wonderfully. The acidity is well balanced and skillfully integrated. The finish is clear and precise.

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Keywords: Clau de Nell Grolleau IGP 2019 bio Loire France

Producer website: https://claudenell.fr/en/home/