While Domaine Bernard Baudry is a relatively young Chinon estate, it is certainly one of the stars of the
appellation. Bernard began in 1975 with 2 hectares in Cravant‐lès‐Coteaux and proceeded to build it to
its current 32 hectares, of which 90% is Cabernet Franc, and the remainder Chenin Blanc. Although
technically retired, Bernard his son Matthieu, who began working at his side in 2000, to assume the lead
role, together they continue to make wines that set the standard in Chinon. The estate has been
certified organic since 2006 but was farmed without synthetic fertilizers or pesticides long before then,
employing time-honored practices of composting and soil cultivation. This cuvée comes from their
highest vineyard, which rests on a plateau of gravel, sand, and limestone, and it is arguably their best
entry point into the charm of Loire Valley Cabernet Franc, lithe and less dense than the bottlings from
their clay‐and‐limestone terroirs. Spontaneous fermentation and unfiltered bottling lead to a delicate,
peppery wine with notes of blackberries, currants, and leather.