"... Les Caillardières is from 40-year-old vines on schist and sand. Harvested about two weeks after the La Jalousie .... Aged in 420-liter barrels for 12 months and another six months in tanks ....
For at least 10 years, Evelyne de Pontbriand's Domaine du Closel has been one of the traditional, stellar producers of lively, authentic Savennières. Certified organic and biodynamic, the goal of the Domaine, which is located at Château des Vaults in the center of the commune of Savennières, is to ‘maintain the biological balance and respect the natural cycles of the ecosystem’ as well as the whole terroir that is to be represented in each single cuvée. The musts ferment with the exclusive help of indigenous yeast in the deepest part of the old cellar. The process takes the time it needs to make great vin de terroir, which is, according to Evelyne, characterized by its ‘richness and aromatic complexity.’ The wines are kept on the fine lees without the addition of sulfur, with the malolactic fermentation fully done. Sulfur is only added before bottling but also used to preserve the barrels when empty. ‘It took me a long time to find my personal style,’ Evelyne said, when we met at the Château about three years ago. ‘I was already 50 when I started here, but for a few years now, I believe I have found what I think is the best style for my vineyards.’ Well, each vintage is different, but this is what the wines should reflect as well. Yet when it comes to the particular style of Domaine du Closel, I would describe it as elegance, finesse’ and textural complexity as well as with subtle energy and stimulating salinity on the finish. Last but not least, these are wonderful gastronomic wines, especially when you serve fish or seafood.”
Stephan Reinhardt, Wine Advocate
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