The estate has a long and storied history, dating back to the 15th century when it was originally founded. Over the years, it has remained in the hands of the same family, passing through generations of passionate winemakers who have cultivated the land and upheld the traditions of the region. The Closel family has played a key role in shaping the identity of Savennières, and their dedication to quality winemaking has earned the domaine an esteemed reputation.

Savennières, located on the north bank of the Loire River, is renowned for its exceptional Chenin Blanc wines. The region’s unique terroir, characterized by schist, slate, and volcanic soils, contributes to the distinctive minerality and structure that define the wines of Domaine du Closel. The vineyards benefit from the Loire Valley’s cool climate, which allows for a long growing season and slow ripening, resulting in wines that are both vibrant and complex.

Chenin Blanc is the signature grape of Domaine du Closel, and the estate is celebrated for its ability to produce a wide range of styles from this versatile variety. The wines are typically dry, with a focus on balance, precision, and terroir expression. They are known for their intense aromas, with notes of quince, pear, and honey, along with a vibrant acidity and pronounced minerality that gives them excellent aging potential.

One of the estate’s flagship wines is the "Clos du Papillon," a single-vineyard Chenin Blanc that comes from one of the most renowned sites in Savennières. The Clos du Papillon vineyard is situated on a steep, south-facing slope with soils rich in schist and quartz, which lend the wine its characteristic minerality and tension. The wine is structured, with flavors of ripe orchard fruits, citrus, and floral notes, balanced by a crisp acidity and a long, mineral-driven finish. It is a wine that evolves beautifully with age, developing layers of complexity and richness over time.

In addition to its iconic dry Chenin Blancs, Domaine du Closel also produces sweet wines in exceptional vintages. These wines, made from late-harvested grapes affected by botrytis (noble rot), are rich and luscious, with concentrated flavors of apricot, honey, and candied citrus. Despite their sweetness, these wines retain a vibrant acidity, which keeps them balanced and prevents them from being overly cloying. These sweet wines are highly sought after and can age for decades, becoming even more complex and nuanced with time.

Domaine du Closel has been a pioneer in sustainable farming practices in the Loire Valley. The estate was certified organic in 2006, and since then, Evelyne de Pontbriand has implemented biodynamic practices across the vineyards. Biodynamics is a holistic approach to farming that treats the vineyard as a living ecosystem, using natural preparations and methods to enhance soil health and promote biodiversity. This approach not only improves the quality of the wines but also ensures that the vineyards remain healthy and productive for future generations.

The winemaking philosophy at Domaine du Closel is based on minimal intervention, allowing the grapes and the terroir to shine. The grapes are hand-harvested at optimal ripeness, and fermentation is carried out using indigenous yeasts to preserve the natural character of the fruit. The wines are aged in a combination of stainless steel and oak barrels, depending on the cuvée, and are bottled with minimal filtration to retain their purity and complexity.

Domaine du Closel’s wines are known for their longevity and their ability to age gracefully. While they can be enjoyed in their youth for their freshness and vibrancy, they truly come into their own with several years of aging, when they develop secondary aromas of dried fruits, nuts, and honey, along with a deeper, more textured mouthfeel. The estate’s wines are a true reflection of the Savennières terroir, offering a perfect balance of power, elegance, and minerality.

Under the leadership of Evelyne de Pontbriand, Domaine du Closel continues to thrive as one of the leading producers in Savennières. Her dedication to organic and biodynamic farming, combined with her respect for tradition and her passion for innovation, ensures that the estate remains at the forefront of Loire Valley winemaking. Whether it’s a crisp, mineral-driven dry Chenin Blanc or a rich, opulent sweet wine, Domaine du Closel’s offerings are a testament to the exceptional quality and diversity of the Savennières appellation.