Jennifer Bariou & Thibaut Bodet

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Jennifer Bariou and Thibaut Bodet are relatively recent arrivals in the central Loire Valley, where they have put down roots in the historic chateau town of Azay-le-Rideau.

Azay-le-Rideau is a wine appellation that is maybe not on the tip of everyone's tongue, but Jennifer and Thibault have compelling reasons for settling in this little hamlet which shares a home with Thomas Calder’s studio. Unlike some of the neighboring appellations which are Cabernet Franc or Chenin Blanc focused, there is more flexibility in Azay-le-Rideau where you can vinify those grapes along with others like Grolleau and Gamay. Also, the vineyards contain diverse soils of flint, clay, and quartz.

Both Bariou and Bodet have experience in winemaking, having studied wine in school as well as working at a number of wineries across the world. Jennifer seriously started wine production in the Loire in 2018, and Thibaut joined in early 2020.⁠⁠ Today, they grow 9 hectares of organically certified vines and use biodynamic principles as well. Biodiversity is important. Sheep graze the land, and various fruit trees are planted around the vines.⁠⁠