Vintus

La Coulée de Serrant, planted with vines by Cistercian monks as early as 1130 A.D. (875 consecutive grape harvests!), constitutes a single AOC of only 7 hectares. Biodynamic practices were progressively introduced beginning in 1980 and the entire vineyard has been farmed biodynamically since 1984. Since then, all synthetic chemical products, weed killers and pasticides have been banned from the entire estate, not simply in the vineyards. The logic behind this approach is the quest to bring out the essential character of the soil (schist) and the microclimate (the estate overlooks the Loire) in order to obtain great originality in flavors, colors and aromas, and unusual ageing potential. Harvesting is carried out each year in 3 or 4 sessions to ensure perfect grape ripeness. Two hectares of old vines, used for the massale production of new plants, are tended by the use of horses. Once a bottle of Coulée de Serrant has been opened, it will improve for several days and will actually reach its prime in 3 to 5 days. About 2,000 cases are produced each year of Coulée de Serrant. Yields are limited to approximately 20 to 25 hectoliters per hectare to obtain more concentration and expression of the terroir. Clos de la Bergerie and Les Clos Sacrés have younger vines and average yields of about 30 to 35 hectoliters per hectare (2.2 to 2.6 tons per acre), still only half the yield allowed by law.

"Nicolas Joly's disciples are legion; wine makers from all over Europe come to sit at his feet. Getting to know great Loire chenin blanc by starting with Savennieres is like getting to know music by starting with a late Beethoven quartet.” The New York Times (Frank Prial)

 "An exceptional producer. Connoisseurs have long known the legendary longevity and quality of his Coulée de Serrant vineyard." Robert Parker Guide