Domaine François Chidaine - Les Bournais 2024
Domaine François Chidaine embodies one of the most inspiring signatures of Montlouis-sur-Loire, heir to a demanding biodynamic vision that enhances every detail of the terroir. Situated on hillsides blending white clays, sands, and flint, the estate has built its reputation through meticulous work done entirely by hand, favoring the observation of natural cycles. Each plot is managed with rare precision, allowing the Chenin Blanc to reveal all the mineral depth characteristic of great Loire wines. Over the years, François Chidaine has established himself as a benchmark thanks to his constant pursuit of balance and aromatic purity. This philosophy shines through in each of his cuvées, unanimously praised for their crystalline tension and timeless elegance.
Les Bournais 2024 embodies the quintessence of this expertise, born from a luminous vintage marked by perfectly controlled ripeness. The cuvée originates from a historic hillside known for its ability to produce Chenins of remarkable precision, where the flint clay adds relief and energy. Hand-harvested, the grapes are gently pressed before a slow fermentation in large oak vats, allowing the wine to develop a complex aromatic framework while retaining its native freshness. The long aging on fine lees gives the 2024 a vibrant density and a silky texture, making it one of the most accomplished vintages of the decade. This cuvée intensely expresses the dialogue between fruity purity, breadth, and mineral tension, the result of meticulous and patient work.
On tasting, the nose reveals a bright palette blending juicy pear, ripe citrus, white flowers, and a delicate touch of warm stone. The palate opens with ample and silky texture, animated by a chiseled acidity that gracefully structures the whole. The flavors gain depth throughout the tasting, revealing nuances of quince, lemon zest, and a subtle underlying salinity. The finish stretches long, precise, and vibrant, marked by a chalky minerality that is the hallmark of great terroir Chenins. Les Bournais 2024 pairs wonderfully with citrus-roasted poultry, salt-crusted sea bass, asparagus risotto, or aged goat cheese. The wine also finds its place during a gourmet aperitif where its purity and elegance are fully expressed.
Grape variety: 100% Chenin Blanc
