2023 Baudry - Chinon Domaine (750ml)

2023 Baudry – Chinon Domaine (750ml)

The 2023 Baudry – Chinon Domaine is the estate’s mid-tier, terroir-driven expression crafted to sit above Les Granges in the Chinon hierarchy. Sourced primarily from a parcel in St. Louans near Les Mollières, the wine inherits sandy, clay over limestone soils that yield earthy, well-structured wines, with balance from the lower part of Clos Guillot. This cuvée is organically farmed, wild-yeast fermented, and aged 15 months in 5–10 year-old wooden vats and cement, with almost no added SO2.

The 2023 vintage delivers elegant berry, stone, and herbal aromas, leading to a palate that is supple, fresh, and distinctly mineral. It expresses red fruit with a refined, terroir-driven backbone, showing vibrancy now while promising further integration and complexity with time in bottle. A remarkable value from a legendary Loire address, it is approachable now but shines with patience.

Terroir & winemaking

Primarily sourced from a St. Louans parcel near Les Mollières, where thin sand and clay over limestone foster structure and minerality. Similar soils on the lower portion of Clos Guillot contribute balance. The vineyard is organically farmed, with wild-yeast fermentation and 15 months of aging in a mix of old wooden vats (5–10 years) and cement. The wine is made with minimal intervention, featuring almost no added SO2 to preserve site-specific character.

Tasting profile

• Nose: Elegant berry notes complemented by stone fruit, herbal accents, and a fresh mineral lift.
• Palate: Supple red fruit, crisp acidity, and a mineral-driven core; refined tannins provide structure without heaviness.
• Finish: Long, savory, and mineral with a persistent herbal echo.

Cellaring & serving

Delicious now, with the poise to develop over time. Best enjoyed from 2025 through 2033, allowing additional integration of tannins and deeper expression of the estate’s terroir. Serve slightly cooler than room temperature to emphasize freshness and mineral notes, and consider a brief decant if you’re opening the bottle early in its life.

Food pairings

• Roasted poultry with herbs (thyme, rosemary)
• Grilled pork chops or lamb with mushroom or garlic sauces
• Mushroom risotto or dishes featuring earthy vegetables
• Aged goat cheese or soft, herbaceous cheeses that echo Cabernet Franc character

Why this is compelling — A refined, terroir-focused Chinon from Baudry that balances elegance, structure, and aging potential. It offers complexity and mineral-driven depth at a value price for the region, making it a standout choice for fans of Loire Cabernet Franc and wines that reward patience without requiring years of waiting.