Val de Loire Cuvee Violette Clau de Nell 2022 (750ML)

17 Points, Tamlyn Currin, JancisRobinson.com: "Full bottle 1,345 g. 65% Cabernet Sauvignon (70-year-old vines), 35% Cabernet Franc (45- to 55-year-old vines). Destemmed, spontaneous fermentation, 12 months on fine lees in old burgundy barrels followed by six months in stainless steel. Certified organic (Ecocert) and biodynamic (Biodyvin, Demeter). The first moment that I bring the glass up close, I smell my childhood classrooms: old wooden floors, chalk dust, pencils sharpened and pencil sharpenings, old wood-and-rusted desks wobbling on scrumples of paper and the scent of jacaranda flowers blowing in on a gathering storm over hot tarmac roads. I find it interesting that, on the palate, the Cab Franc seems to play a stronger role in the blend. Although the fruit is blackcurrant and blackberry, the perfume, the graphite, the cool long whistle of green rosemary and long grass, is all Cab Franc. Elegant, fresh, tailored. (TC) (Drink between 2025-2032)" 10/25

96 Points, James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com: "A textural blend of 65% cabernet sauvignon and 35% cabernet franc. On the nose it is flinty, tarry and minerally, with fresh berry fruit and touches of peppercorn funk, juniper botanicals and damp earth. It’s medium-bodied and linear, with fine, fresh tannins and a pristine, juicy finish. Authentic with a savory touch. Vivid and succulent, with a bright character throughout. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification. So delicious now, but can hold." 12/24