
Domaine François Chidaine Montlouis-sur-Loire Sec Les Bournais 2023
Domaine François Chidaine
Chidaine's Les Bournais bottling shows why Montlouis-sur-Loire deserves recognition alongside its more famous neighbor Vouvray. The biodynamic farming and clay-limestone terroir translate into a Chenin Blanc of rare precision — taut, mineral, and deeply satisfying. Drink it young for freshness or let it develop over the next three to five years.
Nose
Crisp green apple and white floral notes lead, with hints of citrus zest, honeycomb, and a chalky mineral quality. Clean and inviting.
Palate
Dry and focused with bright acidity driving flavors of green apple, quince, and lemon. A subtle honeyed richness develops mid-palate, while a stony mineral thread gives the wine its backbone.
Finish
Medium-length with lingering citrus and a flinty, mineral finish that leaves the palate refreshed.
- Varietal
- Chenin Blanc
- Blend
- 100% Chenin Blanc
- Vineyards
- Les Bournais, Montlouis-sur-Loire
- Alcohol
- 13%
- Organic / Biodynamic
- No
- Skin Contact
- No
Food Pairing
The wine's bright acidity and mineral backbone cut through the richness of butter sauce, while its honeyed apple notes complement the natural sweetness of perfectly seared diver scallops.
François Chidaine farms biodynamically across Montlouis and Vouvray appellations, working clay-limestone soils that sit directly above ancient tuffeau caves where his wines are aged.
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