2022 Thibaud Boudignon Anjou a Francoise, Loire Valley

Made from a small parcel in the village of Saint-Lambert, the 2022 Anjou Blanc à Francois(e) is a mouth-lling style without any heaviness. The generosity of the 2022 season has been curbed, and there's a nervousness and slightly reductive nature that keeps it tight. Expect an attractive sourness from the acidity and salinity. The nish has a nice twist of savory character with 20% new oak (500-liter and cigar format). Time is needed here to ameliorate.

93 points Rebecca Gibb MW vinous.com July 2024

Starting with 2021 vintage this cuvee will be aged for two extra years.
From a parcel of 40 year-old vines in St-Lambert-du-Lattay, planted at 8000 vines/ha on shallow soils of grey schist and rhyolite. Native yeast fermented in wood including some 300L cigares, used to build lees complexity. Maturation in these and 700L demi-muids (30% new) for 15–18 months. Named in honour of his mother Françoise, who passed away when Thibaud was 17, and his father François. This is chenin blanc at its most electric, so long and focussed yet detailed and with explosive power. Anjou has come of age with this wine - this is a wine to sit comfortably alongside more famous appellations and producers. If you can find more profound chenin than this be sure to let us know.

Thibaud Boudignon's Anjou à Françoise from the Loire Valley is a wine that beautifully embodies the elegance and precision of the region. Crafted by Thibaud Boudignon, one of the Loire’s rising stars, this wine showcases his meticulous approach to biodynamic farming and his commitment to creating wines that reflect both the terroir and the vintage. Boudignon’s wines are known for their balance, purity, and ability to age gracefully, and this particular cuvée is no exception.

The fruit for this wine is sourced from Boudignon’s biodynamic vineyards in the Anjou appellation, where the unique combination of schist and volcanic soils imparts a mineral complexity to the wine. The grapes are harvested by hand at optimal ripeness to ensure that only the best fruit makes it into the final wine. The winemaking process is focused on minimal intervention, with fermentation taking place in neutral oak barrels to preserve the purity of the fruit while allowing subtle integration of oak flavors. The wine is aged on its lees, which contributes to its texture and adds a delicate richness.

In the glass, the wine reveals a pale golden hue, with a slight green reflection that speaks to its freshness. The nose is vibrant, with aromas of citrus fruits like lemon, lime, and grapefruit, complemented by floral notes of white flowers and a hint of herbs. There’s also a distinct minerality that adds depth and complexity, reminiscent of wet stone or flint. On the palate, it’s crisp and fresh, with a lively acidity that keeps the wine refreshing. The citrus flavors continue, along with a touch of orchard fruit, such as green apple and pear. The finish is long and clean, with a mineral-driven aftertaste that lingers.

This wine is incredibly versatile when it comes to food pairings. It pairs beautifully with seafood, such as oysters, scallops, or grilled fish, as well as light salads, goat cheese, or vegetable dishes. It’s also a great match for Asian cuisine, such as sushi or ceviche, where its acidity and minerality can really shine. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for a few years, this wine offers a stunning, precise example of Anjou’s potential, and it’s sure to impress anyone looking for a wine that balances elegance and complexity.