Blanc de Noir VdF 2021

In 2006, Anne Claude and her husband Christian met the owners of the Clau de Nell vineyard. The domain in Ambillou-Château on the Loire had great potential with clay, flint and tufa soils and magnificent old vines with an average age of 60 years, some even over a hundred years old. The eight hectares of the domaine were planted with Cabernet Franc, Grolleau and Cabernet Sauvignon. The domaine was bought by Leflaives in 2008 and the vineyards were gradually expanded. Cellar master Sylvain Potin cultivates the estate according to biodynamic guidelines. All three of Anne-Claude Leflaives' children work on the estate.

Der Blanc de Noir ist ein weiß gekelterter Cabernet Franc, gewachsen auf Lehm- und Schlammböden aus rotem Sand- und Feuerstein auf einem Tuffsteinsockel. Das Durchschnittsalter der Reben beträgt ca. 45 Jahre, die Rebanlagen werden nach dem Mondkalender mit biodynamischen Präparaten behandelt, der Ertrag beträgt ca. 30hl/ha. Handlese, sanftes Untertauchen des Tresterhutes und anschließend spontane Vergärung in 228 Liter Burgunder-Fässern in vierter Belegung für 12 Monate auf der Feinhefe und anschließend für sechs Monate im Tank. Nach einer leichten Filtration erfolgte die Füllung an einem “Fruchttag” am 10. Mai 2022.

Red gold with radiant reflections.

The 2021 Blanc de Noir from Clau de Nell oscillates between bright yellow and ripe red fruit on the nose, with a clear herbaceous flavour. Impressions of nectarine and peaches are complemented by red and white currants and their dried leaves. There are also restrained citrus notes of pink grapefruit, wild raspberries and lime blossom as well as floral accents in the top note. The ageing in wood is also recognisable and well integrated into the overall picture.

The interplay of light and dark fruit and spice continues seamlessly on the palate. With strikingly tart notes and leafy tannins, it is animatingly contoured, the fruit also tends to be reflected in the spectrum of the extract. Juicy with salty, mineral notes, it is channelling the skilful use of wood on the palate, which combines wonderfully with the delicate tannins. Blanc de Noir on steroids!