Grolleau IGP 2019 1500ml Magnum

Wine Description for Grolleau IGP 2019 1500ml Magnum by Clau de Nell

Colour & Appearance

Dense, saturated purple with luminous violet reflections – a colour depth one would hardly expect from this Loire varietal.

Nose

Dark and multi-layered, this Grolleau presents itself with: black cherries, blackberries and blueberries dominating, underpinned by liquorice, dark chocolate and warm leather. The spice is remarkably complex – cinnamon, juniper, black pepper and eucalyptus lend depth. Subtle notes of blackcurrant bush wood, dried blackberry leaves and green tea round out the aromatic profile.

Palate

Here Loire typicity reveals itself in perfection: the brilliant balance of juiciness, tannin and minerality is fascinating. Full on the fruit, yet possessed of a silky, almost caressing texture. The tannin remains restrained and elegant, velvety and cool at once. The dark berry fruit and multi-layered spice come beautifully to the fore, the acidity perfectly integrated.

Finish

Clear, precise and lingering – a finale that unites elegance and depth.

Terroir & Origin

The vines, around 55 years old, are rooted in loamy-silty soil on sandstone as well as in red flint on tuffeau (limestone) – a soil combination that lends this wine its mineral precision.

Varietal & Vinification

Grolleau was traditionally used almost exclusively for off-dry Rosé d’Anjou. Clau de Nell impressively demonstrates that this autochthonous Loire variety is capable of producing great red wine. Minimal yield of 25 hl/ha, hand-harvested in 12-kilo crates, destemming and 30-day maceration with rare pump-overs. Maturation took place 30% in Burgundian pièces (5-7 years old), 70% in large wooden vats, followed by six months in stainless steel.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Côte de Boeuf with Pommes Alumette, braised wild boar shoulder with caramelised pumpkin batons and Brussels sprouts, lamb’s tongue with red lentils and warm sherry-raisin vinaigrette.

Special Features

A pioneering wine that proves Grolleau is capable of far more than rosé. Primal, elegant and worthy of ageing – a wine of great character that unfolds additional ageing potential in the magnum format.