The 2020 Domaine François Chidaine Montlouis Les Tuffeaux is a beautifully refined and intensely mineral Chenin Blanc from one of the Loire Valley’s benchmark biodynamic producers. Produced from old vines planted on the famed tuffeau limestone soils of Montlouis-sur-Loire, the wine reflects François Chidaine’s meticulous low-intervention philosophy, balancing concentration and textural depth with remarkable freshness and precision. The nose reveals quince, preserved lemon and ripe pear layered alongside white flowers, beeswax and crushed chalk, giving the wine impressive complexity and aromatic lift.
On the palate, it is light to medium-bodied with vibrant natural acidity, layered texture and a tightly wound mineral core. Layers of citrus oil, orchard fruit and delicate savoury complexity are balanced by saline freshness and deep chalky tension, finishing long, dry and beautifully persistent with excellent structure and ageing potential. Indigenous yeast fermentation and extended lees ageing in demi-muids contribute subtle richness and texture while preserving the wine’s crystalline purity and terroir transparency.
Ben’s Recommendation:
The 2020 Domaine François Chidaine Montlouis Les Tuffeaux is a superb Loire Chenin Blanc — mineral, layered and beautifully refined with outstanding freshness and precision. Perfect with oysters, scallops, roast chicken, goat’s cheese or lightly spiced seafood dishes. Enjoy now with decanting or cellar gracefully through 2040+.
