clos
/klo/
The French word clos means a walled area used for growing vines or other plants.
In the context of viticulture, a clos refers specifically to a vineyard surrounded by a stone wall.
What does it mean word for word?
The word clos is the past participle of the verb clore (to close/enclose), literally meaning enclosed.
How do you pronounce it?
/klo/
When do people say it?
The term is frequently seen in the names of prestigious French wine estates, such as Clos de Volnay.
Did you know?
- In the Burgundy region, some clos are so prestigious that their walls are protected by law, and changing the boundary of a clos can require official government approval.
- In a religious context, a clos can refer to the secluded area of a convent or monastery. This mirrors the vineyard's purpose of separating a precious space from the outside world.
- The walls of a clos are not just for security. They create a microclimate by trapping heat and blocking wind, which often makes the grapes inside taste different from those just a few meters outside the wall.
Examples in context
- Le clos est entouré de vieux murs de pierre.The walled area is surrounded by old stone walls.
- Nous allons visiter le clos de la propriété.We are going to visit the walled garden of the estate.
- Les vignes poussent à l'intérieur du clos.The vines are growing inside the walled area.
Example conversation
Two friends are walking through a historical vineyard.
- EmmaRegarde ce magnifique clos de vignes, Hugo.Look at this magnificent walled vineyard, Hugo.
- HugoOui, Emma, le mur est très ancien.Yes, Emma, the wall is very old.
- EmmaEst-ce qu'on peut entrer dans le clos ?Can we enter the walled area?
- HugoJe pense que la porte est ouverte.I think the gate is open.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry clos, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
