Clau de Nell Cabernet Franc 2023

Drink it now or cellar for up to 10 years. No need to decant. Located in the Loire Valley, this estate has been owned by Anne-Claude Leflaive, of the famous Puligny-Montrachet estate since 2008 and has been managed by Sylvain Potain since 2009. The company focuses its production on the local Cabernet Franc, Chenin Blanc, Grolleau, and Cabernet Sauvignon vines and cultivates its vineyards biodynamically and the work is carried out according to the rhythms of the biodynamic calendar. The grapes benefit from clay-limestone soils, with red sandstone and flint. The wines are aged for 12 -24 months in old barrels stored inside troglodyte caves. Cabernet Franc grapes come from vineyards aged between 45 and 55 years. After manual selection and harvest, fermentation takes place with indigenous yeasts and minimal interventions. The finished wine is then aged 12 months on the fine lees in Burgundy barrels and then a further 6 months in vats. This Cabernet Franc is a brilliantly colored wine with ruby red tones. On the nose, it reveals a fruity and sweet aromatic profile with floral hints and some spicy notes. On the palate, it is fruity and juicy, balanced and with delicate tannins. The finish is pleasant and recalls notes of cooked fruit. It is a splendid example of Loire Cabernet Franc and pairs beautifully with pork and some vegetarian recipes.