Anouk Lavoie-Lamoureux & Paul-André Risse

Les Jardins de Theseiis (Loir-et-Cher)

Based in Thésée within the Loir-et-Cher, Les Jardins de Theseiis is the project of Anouk Lavoie-Lamoureux and Paul-André Risse. Both coming from scientific backgrounds—Anouk in biology and Paul-André in physics—they transitioned to viticulture by training with some of the Loire’s most respected natural winemakers, including Christian Venier.

In 2017, they took over the historic vineyards of the legendary Bruno Allion, inheriting a treasure trove of healthy, biodynamically farmed vines. Their name, "The Gardens of Theseiis," reflects their view of the vineyard as a holistic garden rather than a monocultural farm.

The Philosophy: Scientific Observation & Intuition

Anouk and Paul-André blend technical precision with a deep respect for the living world. Their approach is characterized by:

• Biodynamic Continuity: They have maintained the Demeter-certified practices established by Allion, using herbal teas and preparations to strengthen the vines’ immunity.

• Radical Purity: They believe in "nothing added, nothing taken away." The wines are bottled without sulfur, fining, or filtration.

• Terroir Focus: By working with old vines (some over 100 years old), they aim to translate the specific flint and limestone signatures of the Touraine into the glass.

Technical Profile

Terroir and Vineyard Management The estate spans approximately 5 to 6 hectares on the slopes of the Cher Valley. The geology is classic Touraine: a mix of clay, limestone (tuffeau), and "perruches" (flint/silex stones). The presence of flint is crucial, providing a distinct smoky minerality and nerve to their wines. The vineyards are farmed according to strict Biodynamic (Demeter) standards, emphasizing soil life and cosmic rhythms.

Varietals and Vinification The couple works with traditional local varietals: Sauvignon Blanc, Menu Pineau, Cabernet Franc, Gamay, and Côt (Malbec). In the cellar, they utilize a gravity-fed system to avoid pumping the juice. Fermentation occurs spontaneously in fiberglass or stainless steel tanks to preserve the primary fruit and tension, though some cuvées see time in neutral oak. They are particularly noted for their mastery of Menu Pineau, a rare local grape that they treat with the reverence usually reserved for top-tier Chenin.

Notable Cuvées

• Mazière: A vibrant Sauvignon Blanc that avoids the "varietal" clichés of the grape, offering instead depth, texture, and stony minerals.

• L’Acaris: A profound expression of Menu Pineau from old vines, showing honeyed notes, high acidity, and great aging potential.

• Cœur de Côt: A structured yet fluid red made from Côt (Malbec), emphasizing dark fruit and the spicy grip of the limestone terroir.

• Brin de Chèvre: A heritage cuvée (originally made famous by Allion) focusing on the elegance of Menu Pineau.