2023 Domaine Bernard Baudry Chinon Blanc

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

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.