Domaine François Chidaine : Clos du Breuil 2021

The balance and fruity expression of a Loire white wine

The estate

Then an agricultural worker on the family farm, François Chidaine in 1989 decided to plant a few hectares of vines and create his own wine estate in Montlouis-sur-Loire in the heart of the Touraine region. Conscious of his environment and the balance between nature and the work of humans, François Chidaine has been running his vineyard using organic farming methods since 1992 and biodynamic farming since 1999.

Recognised for their quality and authentic expression of the terroir, the wines of Domaine François Chidaine are among the essential references for Loire wines. The François Chidaine estate oversees a vineyard that has gradually grown to cover 37 hectares (20 of which are in the Montlouis-sur-Loire appellation, 10 in Vouvray and 7 in the Touraine appellation). This vineyard is located on a mosaic of soils composed of clay, flint and limestone, which contribute to the style of its Loire wines, expressing with authenticity the characteristics of each of their terroir of origin.

The vineyard

Le Clos du Breuil 2021 Domaine François Chidaine is a Montlouis-sur-Loire wine made from a single plot of land, facing north-west, where the vines are an average of 60 years old and lie on a soil composed of flinty clay. The subsoil is made up of Tuffeau stone, a soft, white limestone that encourages deep rooting.

The vintage

Late and cold, the 2021 vintage was marked by severe weather instability. The April frost preceded persistent heavy rainfall from June to August, leading to strong mildew pressure and a sharp reduction in yields.  Despite these extreme conditions, this vintage reveals a beautiful freshness that suggests a significant ageing potential.

Winemaking and ageing

The grapes are harvested by hand with successive sorting and are delicately pressed. Alcoholic fermentation is carried out in demi-muids, using indigenous yeasts, for up to six months. No malolactic fermentation. The wine is aged on its lees in demi-muids for 6 to 8 months.

Blend

Chenin Blanc (100%).

Characteristics and tasting tips for Clos du Breuil 2021 from Domaine François Chidaine

Tasting

Colour
The colour is clear and shining.

Nose
The nose releases with a lovely minerality scents of citrus fruit and licorice.

Palate
Full and fruity, the palate delights with its balance and freshness.

Food and wine pairing

Grilled fish, crustaceans, cod and goat’s cheese pair perfectly with this Loire white wine.

To serve

For the best tasting, serve between 11 and 12°C.

Storage

This white wine can be laid down until around 2026.