Montlouis Clos du Breuil Sec 2022,9596 (Francois Chidaine)

Drink it now or cellar for up to 15 years. No need to decant, but best to open it half an hour before service. Located in Montlouis-sur-Loire, in the heart of the Touraine appellation, Domaine François Chidaine has over 40 hectares of vineyards cultivated organically since 1992, and biodynamically since 1999. Work in the vineyard is managed with the utmost respect for nature and the terroir. Nematicide plants or cereals are sown between the rows, and yields are low. Chenin Blanc, locally called Pineau de Loire, is the most cultivated grape variety and occupies approximately 70% of the estate's vineyards. The other vines grown are Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Grolleau, Cabernet Franc, and Côt. The Chenin Blanc grapes are selected and harvested manually from approximately 60-year-old vines, managed biodynamically, and planted on clay soils with coarse elements of flint, and a subsoil of white limestone rock. Fermentation takes place with indigenous yeasts in 620-liter barrels, called demi-muid. The wine is then refined on the lees. Francois Chidaine Montlouis Clos du Breuil Sec is a dry white wine with a fresh, mineral aromatic profile and notes of citrus and white flowers. On the palate, it is lively and juicy, floral and fruity. The acidity is refreshing and well-balanced. The finish recalls a pleasant mineral note. It is perfect as an aperitif, and excellent served with seafood and white fish.