Nicolas Joly 'Les Vieux Clos' Savennières 2023

Nicolas Joly ‘Les Vieux Clos’ Savennières 2023
Loire, France – 100% Chenin Blanc – Certified Biodynamic

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Producer
Since 1980, Nicolas Joly’s estate has followed the principles of biodynamic agriculture, completely rejecting pesticides, herbicides and chemical fertilizers that compromise terroir expression. Biodiversity is key: cover crops and animals coexist among the vines, balancing the ecosystem and revitalizing the soil.

In the cellar, intervention is minimal — only careful rackings, moderate bâtonnage, small doses of natural sulfur and light filtration. All industrial methods are avoided: no artificial yeasts, reverse osmosis, chemical corrections or technological manipulation.

The wine is crafted from late-harvested Chenin Blanc, handpicked in three successive passes through the vineyard to balance ripeness, acidity and up to 10% noble rot (botrytis). Despite this, it is a dry wine, layered, complex and deeply expressive.

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Technical details

Region: Savennières AOC, Loire
Grape: 100% Chenin Blanc
Soil: Schist and quartz
Farming: Certified biodynamic (since 1980)
Average yield: ~30 hl/ha
Harvest: Manual, 3 successive passes
Vinification: Native yeasts, no technological additives
Aging: In neutral vats and old barrels
Sulfur: Minimal, only at bottling
Filtration: Very light
Bottle: 0.75 l

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Tasting notes (suggestive)
Aromas of ripe pear, elderflower, light honey and dried herbs. The palate is textured and energetic, with layered depth and firm acidity that balances the wine’s rich structure. A multifaceted, mineral-driven Chenin Blanc with great aging potential. Should be decanted to fully reveal its character.

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Recommended pairings

Aged cheeses (Comté, blue cheeses)
Pan-seared scallops with lemon butter
Roast chicken with thyme and new potatoes
Lamb tagine with apricots
Wild mushroom risotto

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