Thibaud Boudignon is a highly exciting figure in the Loire region, having trained with Philippe Charlopin and in Australia before starting his own project in Anjou and Savennieres in 2009. His winery is renowned for valuing fruit quality and vine health, employing organic and biodynamic treatments. The 'A Francoise' cuvée is a deeply personal wine, named in honor of Thibaud's late mother, and is crafted without compromise; he will not release it if it doesn't meet his exacting standards. This Chenin Blanc comes from a vineyard plot planted in the early 1980s in St-Lambert-du-Lattay, characterized by shallow soils of grey schist and volcanic rock. The 2023 vintage is expected to offer a crystal-clear snapshot of its terroir and vintage. Fermented with indigenous yeasts in French and Austrian oak barrels (350L and 700L, 30% new) and aged for 12-18 months, it promises complexity and depth. Tasting notes for the 2023 describe a captivating aromatic spectrum of juicy pineapple, exotic fruits, sage, menthol, and ripe orchard fruits. On the palate, it is fleshy and concentrated, with vibrant acidity, a silky texture, and a long, saline finish. Expect a mouth-filling style without heaviness, a nervous and slightly reductive nature, and an attractive sourness from acidity and salinity, culminating in a savory twist on the finish. It's often described as crisp, crystal-clear, mineral, saline, tense, layered, and possessing a long finish. 【Named in honor of Thibaud's late mother, made without compromise】. 🍴 Food Pairing: This versatile white pairs beautifully with white meats, oily fish, risottos, and salads. For a more specific match, consider tuna tataki with lime, black sesame tuile and ponzu-marinated white cabbage, goat cheese, raw fish, or vegetables. It also shines alongside roast turbot or halibut with beurre blanc, lobster, aged Comté, sweetbreads, or roast pork. 🥂 Event Suggestions: This wine is perfect for special occasions, elegant dinners, or as a sophisticated aperitif. Its complexity and aging potential also make it suitable for cellaring and enjoying at a later date, perhaps to celebrate milestones or anniversaries. Given its heartfelt dedication, it could also be a thoughtful wine for a memorial or a tribute event.