François Chidaine

Montlouis-Sur-Loire et Vouvray

 Based in Montlouis-Sur-Loire, François took over from his father when he retired in 1989 with only 4 hectares, but his current holdings are 30 hectares. Known for being a pioneer of organic/biodynamic farming in the region, the Domaine has been certified both organic and biodynamic since 2003 but is now practicing regenerative farming, in which cover crops are not tilled, and indigenous plant species are encouraged to grow in between rows. This allows for a complex fungal network to develop, resulting in better quality fruit as well as offsetting carbon emissions. That's the shorthand version of a complex process. The practice is cutting edge in viticulture today, and François hopes that his neighbours follow his lead. 

Montlouis-Sur-Loire is situated across the river from Vouvray and received AOC status in 1950. However, it was seen as lesser quality than Vouvray when in actuality the higher content of gravel in the soil contributes to a leaner style with a flinty character that delightfully distinguishes it from Vouvray. Most of Chidaine's vineyards are located in Montlouis, with small holdings in Vouvray and Touraine. The age of the vines ranges from 40 to 80 years old on average and yields are kept low at 35l/ha. Farming is done according to the biodynamic almanac, created by Maria Thun, which looks at both the solar and lunar calendars. 

His winemaking follows a similar philosophy as his viticulture. The grapes are slowly pressed, and all winter long, spontaneous fermentation will occur very slowly in his limestone cellars. The slow process allows for a thin layer of carbon to naturally occur thus reducing the need to use sulphur. Many of the cuvées spend upwards of 12 months resting on the lees. The Chenin Blancs display textual intensity balanced out with pristine minerality on the impossibly long finish.