At a glance

Producer

François Chidaine

Region

Montlouis-sur-Loire, Loire Valley, France

Grape variety

Chenin Blanc

Wine type

White

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$30-$45

Tasting profile

Crisp citrus, green apple, delicate floral notes, subtle wet stone minerality.

Evolution: With age, develops deeper honeyed, nutty, and complex smoky nuances while retaining freshness.

At peak: Balanced complexity with pronounced mineral and quince notes, length, and depth.

Structure

Acidity

High acidity typical of Chenin Blanc from the Loire

Tannins

None (white wine)

Alcohol

Approximately 12.5-13.5% ABV

Aging potential

Good aging potential of 10+ years facilitated by grape variety and winemaking style

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2030

Optimal window

2023 to 2030

Current status

Approaching early maturity

Current condition

The wine shows fresh vibrant acidity with developing minerality and complexity

The 2020 vintage from François Chidaine’s Les Bournais vineyard is a classic Montlouis-sur-Loire Chenin Blanc with high acidity and expressive minerality. The combination allows extended cellaring, and the best drinking window opens around 3 years after vintage, extending for 7-10 years, reflecting the vintage quality and terroir expression.

Food pairing

Pairs excellently with shellfish (oysters, scallops), white fish, goat cheese, roasted chicken, and dishes with a touch of acidity such as lemon-based sauces.

Serving

Serving temperature

10-12°C / 50-54°F

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

François Chidaine employs organic viticulture with minimal intervention in the cellar, sustainable vineyard management including cover crop planting, no herbicides, and hand harvesting.

The winery's commitment to organic grape growing, low-intervention winemaking, and reduced packaging footprints places it among sustainable producers. Their moderate carbon footprint benefits from regional sales predominance and eco-conscious practices.