Francois Chidaine Les Argiles Sec , 2023

Francois and Manuéla are a husband and wife operation based in both Montlouis and Vouvray located in the central Loire Valley. In a region that produced bulk wine for years, particularly after WWII, the Chidaine duo brought an emphasis to wines of quality and regenerative farming; they also look to natural winemaking. One of their largest goals is to look to the future, “an effort to save the world.” Chidaine’s household wines are varying styles of Chenin Blanc from dry to off-dry to sparkling. Their inspired lineup includes classic reds and whites from the Loire made into vibrant, juicy styles ranging in price points. Their momentum only continues as they seek to better the world around them.

Les Argiles is Chenin Blanc coming from 40 year old vines in the appellation of Vouvray coming from several different parcels. The juice is vinified almost completely dry with just 4 grams of residual sugar and goes on to age in both steel and small barrels.