2019 Francois Chidaine Vin de France Petillant, Loire Valley

Chidaine's Pétillant comes from 100% estate-grown Chenin Blanc, now from a range of Chidaine's chalkier sites in Vouvray. François arrests the primary fermentation when the wine has between 14 and 16 g/L of residual sugar, so he does not need to add sugar for the secondary fermentation in bottle. The wine is dry (no dosage), mouth-watering and crunchy with Bosc pear, ripe apple skin and a savoury, sappy energy and freshness. It is low pressure (2.5 bars) and therefore only gently sparkling in the true pétillant style. Aged on lees for 36 months before disgorgement, this is a great bargain for lovers of quality grower Champagne. In sum, a beautifully vibrant, pure, long and mineral wine that begs to be used during a meal—not to mention before and after!