Famille Joly 'Les Vieux Clos' Savennieres, Loire Valley, France 2020

Famille Joly is widely known as one of the greatest biodynamic wine producers in France, embodying the intersection of well-respected history and refined technique. The estate is owned by the Joly family, led by Nicolas Joly, and aims to express the natural balance and beauty of the Loire Valley Chenin Blanc vineyards with respect and minimal intervention.

Les Vieux Clos provides an inviting taste into the Famille Joly style. The 5.5 hectares vineyard is planted on light slopes facing east in the mountainous AOC Savennières appellation. The soil is different here, with more sand in the first 2 feet. Yields are kept at 25 hectoliters per hectare (well below the 50 hl/ha requirement of the appellation). .

• Winemaker: Nicolas Joly
• Farming: Biodynamic
• Grape Varieties: 100% Chenin Blanc
• Terroir / Soil: The 5.5 hectares vineyard is planted on light slopes facing east in the mountainous AOC Savennières appellation. The soil is different here, with more sand in the first 2 feet. Yields are kept at 25 hectoliters per hectare (well below the 50 hl/ha requirement of the appellation). 30 year old average vine age.
• Winemaking:  No settling, no temperature control during fermentation, 100% indigenous yeasts, no fining. 100% Malolactic. 
  
• Aging: 6-8 months in old oak barrels
• Tasting Notes: Exotic notes of ginger and coriander balanced with candied pear and an accent of salinity. Les Vieux Clos is often considered the most aromatic of the three Joly wines.