2020 Domaine François Chidaine Montlouis-Sur-Loire "Méthode Traditionnelle", Brut Nature, Loire Valley, France

ABOUT THIS WINE

The appellation of Montlouis is located at the junction of the Loire and Cher Rivers, and spreads across approximately 400 hectares. This wine was sourced from amongst 20 hectares of estate-owned, biodynamically farmed vines ranging from 30-90 years old. The yields average 35 hectoliters per hectare. The soils are predominately a base of limestone and chalk, overlaid with clay and coarse chunks of flint (which are two types named "Les Perruches" and "Les Aubois"). These biodynamically-farmed grapes are hand-harvested and sorted through multiple times. Following a pneumatic pressing, the juice is fermented with indigenous yeasts in 600L demi-muids for up to 6 months. No malolactic fermentation. No dosage. Aged for 5-6 months on its fine lees in demi-muids, then in bottle "sur lattes" for a minimum of 12 months.

ABOUT THIS PRODUCER

Francois Chidaine is a second generation estate located in Montlouis, run by the dymanic couple, François and Manuela Chidaine. For years Chidaine has been a leader in natural viticulture, farming organically and biodynamically.

Today, Chidaine embraces “regenerative agriculture”, a no-till farming approach where permanent cover crops of indigenous and sown plants coexist with the vines. By mimicking nature, the vines find their place in a complex ecosystem, allowing them to better express their place of origin. Additionally, by building soil, François improves the rate at which CO2 is removed from the atmosphere and converted into plant material and soil organic matter. Besides a range of blended and single-parcel Montlouis, Chidaine also produces a couple of wines from top vineyards in Vouvray, as well as several delicious, easy-drinking, great value wines from purchased grapes from nearby vineyards in the Touraine appellation.