2023 Anjou Clos des Sables
The estate's signature cuvée, Clos des Sables overlooks the schist slopes of the Hyrôme (a left-bank tributary of the Layon and sub-tributary of the Loire). The vines are rooted at the top of the slope, which ensures perfect sun exposure and ventilation. Here the soils are ochre and sandy, quickly giving way to the famous rolled gravels.
- Hilltop Chenin Blanc on Cenomanian sand and rolled gravel, overlooking the schist slopes of the Hyrôme.
- Fermented and aged 12 months on fine lees in barrels of 225 to 500 litres.
- Pear, peach and quince, dense and buttery; 13.5% alcohol, 8 to 10 years' ageing.
- Grape
- Chenin
- Parcel
- Clos des Sables
- Terroir
- Cenomanian sands and rolled gravels
- Alc
- 13.5%
- Ageing potential
- 8 to 10 years
- Serve
- Around 10°C
- Certification
- Certified organic
Tasting Notes
The colour is a magnificent gold. The nose opens on aromas of pear and peach coulis, almost candied apricot and pineapple, and quince. The palate is perfectly in tune with the rich density sensed on the nose. While Clos des Sables impresses with its density, its flesh and its delicately buttery breadth, this 2024 vintage is perfectly enlivened by just the right freshness on the finish. The wine fills body and mind for long minutes. A pure delight in prospect.
Winemaking
Alcoholic fermentation and ageing take place in barrels of 225, 300, 400 and 500 litres. Ageing on fine lees lasts 12 months with some bâtonnage. Malolactic fermentation is often sought for this cuvée. Barrels give more micro-oxygenation than amphora; they are needed to build the breadth, richness and persistence of the wine.
Distributed in Australia by Principal Wine.