Maï Sato and Kenji Hodgson

are iconic figures in the natural wine movement of Anjou. Originally from Canada and Japan, they moved to the Loire Valley in 2009 to learn from legendary winemakers like Mark Angeli (La Ferme de la Sansonnière) and Benoît Courault. In 2010, they settled in Rablay-sur-Layon, establishing a small estate that has since gained a cult following for its precision and purity.

The Philosophy: "Humility and Presence"

The Hodgsons are known for their quiet, meticulous approach to viticulture. Their philosophy is centered on the idea that wine is "made in the vineyard," requiring a constant physical presence among the vines to assist nature rather than impose upon it.

  • Minimalist Intervention: They follow a "low-tech" cellar philosophy. Fermentations are spontaneous with indigenous yeasts, and they typically add zero sulfur (sans soufre), even at bottling.

  • Avoidance of Trends: Unlike many "glou-glou" (easy-drinking) natural wines, the Hodgsons strive for structure, power, and age-worthiness, reflecting a classical edge within the natural wine spectrum.

  • Organic & Manual: All work is done by hand with strict organic (and often biodynamic) practices to ensure the grapes reach the cellar in perfect health.

Technical Profile

Terroir and Vineyard Management The estate consists of approximately 4 hectares of vines spread across Rablay-sur-Layon and Faye-d'Anjou. Their parcels are located on the "Anjou Noir" (Black Anjou) landscape, characterized by Schist, Sandstone, and rare Spilite (volcanic rock). Notably, their plot Clos des Grands Champs shares similar volcanic soil to the famous Noëls de Montbenault terroir.

Varietals and Vinification They work primarily with Chenin Blanc, Grolleau Noir, and Cabernet Franc. White wines (Chenin) are often aged for extended periods—frequently 12 to 24 months—in old oak barrels or foudres to develop complexity and mineral depth. Their red wines are aged to soften tannins while maintaining fresh fruit profiles. All wines are bottled unfined and unfiltered.

Notable Cuvées

  • Les Aussigouins: A flagship 100% Chenin Blanc from a superb terroir; aged for 2 years, it is known for its intense minerality and notes of white peach and mirabelle plum.

  • Faïa: A dry Chenin Blanc (often a blend of young and old vines) that expresses citrus, quince, and floral notes.

  • O Galarneau!: A pure Cabernet Franc aged for 12 months, balancing spicy notes with bright fruit.

  • La Grande Pièce: A rare, fresh, and spicy 100% Grolleau Noir produced in very limited quantities.

  • P'tit Luchini: Their more approachable, "entry-level" expression available in both white (Chenin) and red (often a blend) versions.

Contact Information

  • Location: Rablay-sur-Layon, 49750 Bellevigne-en-Layon, France.

  • Inquiries: They are notoriously busy in the vineyards and maintain a very small production. They are frequently represented at specialized natural wine fairs like La Dive Bouteille.

  • Global Distribution: While they do not have a traditional website, their wines are found through specialized natural wine importers (such as Marée Haute or Lieu-Dit).