From: Chinon, Loire Valley, France
Varietal: Chenin Blanc
Taste: This is a pale yellow hue in the glass, hinting at its freshness and vibrancy. On the nose, it opens with bright, zesty citrus notes—think lemon zest and mandarin peel—paired with the delicate sweetness of ripe quince. Subtle undertones of white peach and green apple lend a sense of depth with faint nuttiness and a stony earthiness.
Juicy pear and golden apple flavors unfold alongside hints of candied ginger and a whisper of honeyed chamomile. A vibrant acidity cuts through the richness. The pronounced minerality, reminiscent of crushed seashells and wet slate, adds texture. The finish is long with citrus zest and a touch of salinity
Pairing: The wine’s bright acidity makes it an excellent match for dishes with citrus, vinegar, or fresh herbs, complementing and highlighting its vibrant character. Its stony minerality pairs beautifully with foods that have earthy or mineral-driven elements, such as shellfish or goat cheese, creating a seamless harmony. The wine’s subtle fruit sweetness and textured palate balance well with creamy sauces or mildly spiced dishes, adding depth without overpowering the flavors. However, avoiding overly sweet or spicy dishes is best, as they can overshadow the wine’s delicate nuances. Fresh, light flavors are ideal, allowing the wine’s finesse and complexity to take center stage.
Roasted White Fish With Lemony Almondine
By Melissa Clark, NYT Cooking
About: Established in the 1970s by Bernard Baudry, the domaine started with a modest 2 hectares of vineyards but quickly gained recognition for its focus on Cabernet Franc.
Bernard Baudry transitioned the domaine to his son, Matthieu Baudry, in 2000. Matthieu, who shares his father's passion for winemaking, brought fresh energy and a modern perspective while maintaining the family’s traditional values. The father-and-son duo has worked to expand the estate, which now encompasses approximately 30 hectares of vineyards spread across diverse soil types, including limestone, clay, and sandy gravel. Each soil type contributes distinct characteristics to their wines, adding depth and complexity.
The estate is located near Cravant-les-Coteaux, a village known for producing some of the best wines in the Chinon appellation. The vineyards are planted almost exclusively with Cabernet Franc, though a small portion is dedicated to Chenin Blanc for their white wine production. The estate covers around 2,300 hectares and is located along the Vienne River, a tributary of the Loire, near Chinon.
