From: Chinon, Loire Valley, France
Varietal: Cabernet Franc
Taste: The 2021 Bernard Baudry Chinon Les Granges presents an enchanting, bright ruby hue in the glass. On the nose, a lively perfume of fresh-squeezed berries, floral fragrances, and subtle hints of green bell pepper and crushed mint leaves entices the senses. Upon the first sip, the palate is greeted with vibrant flavors of juicy red fruits, including ripe cherries, raspberries, and cranberries, followed by a delicate touch of earthy minerality and a hint of smokiness. The wine's nimble frame and plush, silky tannins create a beautifully balanced and harmonious mouthfeel. The refreshing acidity lends brightness and length to the flavor profile, making this Cabernet Franc dangerously gulpable. The finish is smooth and persistent, leaving a delightful trail of fruitiness and a lingering hint of spice.
Pairing: The 2021 Bernard Baudry Chinon Les Granges pairs exceptionally well with a variety of dishes due to its versatile, fruit-forward profile and bright acidity. Consider dishes with savory and umami-rich ingredients, such as roasted or grilled meats, earthy mushrooms, and aged cheeses. The wine's fresh fruit flavors and moderate tannins can also complement tomato-based pasta dishes, hearty stews, and charcuterie boards. For a truly authentic Loire Valley experience, pair this Chinon with local specialties, such as pork rillettes (check out the recipe below), rillons, or Coq au Vin.
For a vegetarian option, consider pairing the 2021 Bernard Baudry Chinon Les Granges with a savory mushroom risotto, incorporating earthy and umami flavors that will complement the wine's fruitiness and subtle earthy notes. Consider pairing this wine with a hearty lentil stew, or a vegetable-based quiche. For lighter fare, opt for a grilled vegetable platter, featuring eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers, or a warm spinach salad with caramelized onions and toasted nuts.
Pork Rillettes
By Mark Bittman
About. Bernard Baudry's 2021 Chinon Les Granges is a wine that invites you to savor its enticing aroma and vivacious flavors. As Anthony Lynch describes, "Put a slight chill on it, pop the cork, and inhale its lively perfume: the floral fragrance and bright, juicy fruit—picture fresh-squeezed berries—are simply irresistible.”
The Baudry family has been crafting exquisite wines since the early 1980s. Today, Matthieu Baudry continues his father's legacy as head vigneron, bringing the same dedication to quality that has made the Bernard Baudry estate synonymous with outstanding Chinon wines.
The father and son duo's fascination with Chinon's diverse terroirs has led them to expand their estate to 32 hectares, where they cultivate a range of exceptional wines. Among these, "Les Granges" holds a special place as the estate's first release and most youthful wine. Made from 25-year-old vines planted on alluvial soil and gravel near the Vienne riverbed, this wine is both supple and fruity, offering a delightful taste experience perfect for simple foods and cheeses.
Crafted from 100% Cabernet Franc, Les Granges showcases the Baudry's commitment to organic farming and traditional winemaking techniques. The grapes are hand-harvested and destemmed without crushing before undergoing a spontaneous fermentation with native yeasts. The wine is then aged in concrete tanks for 7-10 months, with minimal sulfur usage, before being bottled unfiltered.
This youthful red bursts with smoky cherry fruit and is meant to be enjoyed young. As the earliest release of the Baudry reds, Les Granges is an excellent introduction to the estate's lineup of wines, reflecting the dedication and passion that goes into every bottle. This Chinon is particularly well-suited to pair with pork rillettes, rillons, Coq au Vin, and springtime dishes such as local chicken with asparagus and ramps.
Bernard Baudry's 2021 Chinon Les Granges is an irresistible delight that can easily convert even those who usually shy away from the Cabernet Franc grape. So, be kind and share this enchanting wine, and let its vibrant, youthful spirit bring joy to your table.
