Clau de Nell Grolleau 2021

Clau de Nell works organically and biodynamically in Saumur on the middle Loire, reviving Grolleau, an old local variety usually relegated to rosé. The vines sit on clay over limestone and schist, soils that retain moisture in this temperate, river-cooled climate and give the wine its bright acidity and fine, mineral structure. Cool nights and a long, gentle growing season preserve the floral, red-fruited aromatics that mark the grape. The wine is held twelve months on its lees in barrel, where the spent yeast cells release mannoproteins that build a soft, rounded texture, then six months in concrete vats that keep the fruit fresh without adding oak flavour, followed by three years in bottle before release. The 2021 vintage gives a light, fresh, perfumed red. The colour is bright translucent ruby. The nose shows redcurrant, sour cherry and rhubarb over white flowers, white pepper and a chalky, earthy note. The palate is light bodied and supple, with crisp acidity, very fine tannins and a clean, savoury finish. Serve cool, around 14 degrees. It suits charcuterie, roast poultry and grilled fish.