Grolleau IGP 2019

Wine Description for Grolleau IGP 2019 from Clau de Nell

Colour & Appearance

Dense purple with violet reflections – a colour depth one would hardly expect from the often underestimated Grolleau grape.

Nose

Impressively dark and concentrated. Black cherry, blackberry and blueberry dominate, underpinned by liquorice and dark chocolate. The spice palette is complex: cinnamon, juniper, black pepper and eucalyptus alternate. Subtle woody notes evoke blackcurrant bush wood, whilst dried blackberry leaves and green tea provide additional finesse. An aromatic profile of remarkable depth.

Palate

Here the classic Loire elegance reveals itself in perfection: the balance between juiciness, tannin and minerality is flawless. The tannin presents itself restrained and silky, enveloping the palate like velvet. Yet the wine remains cool and precise, never heavy. The dark berry fruit and multifaceted spice permeate every sip, whilst the perfectly integrated acidity provides tension and drinking flow.

Finish

Clear, precise and lingering. The minerality carries far, accompanied by fine spice notes.

Terroir & Origin

The 55-year-old vines are rooted in clayey-silty soil on sandstone as well as in red flint on Tuffeau (limestone) – a soil combination that lends the wine its remarkable minerality.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Grolleau is traditionally used in the Loire for off-dry rosé. Clau de Nell was a pioneer in the dry, single-varietal expression of this indigenous variety. Minimal yield of 25 hl/ha, hand-harvested in small crates, 30 days of skin contact. 30% maturation in older Burgundian pièces, 70% in large wooden vats, finishing six months in stainless steel – a thoughtful concept that perfectly balances fruit and structure.

Food Pairing Suggestions

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

Special Features

A wine that proves Grolleau can do far more than rosé. Primal, elegant and worthy of ageing – a statement for an underestimated grape variety.