2023 François Chidaine Montlouis Les Grillonnières by Alice Chidaine, Loire Valley

From the next generation of one of the Loire’s most respected families, Les Grillonnières is led by Alice Chidaine, bringing a slightly more lifted, energetic expression to Montlouis while staying true to the domaine’s biodynamic roots. The vineyard sits on classic limestone and clay soils, giving Chenin Blanc both texture and that unmistakable chalky backbone.

The 2023 vintage feels bright and finely detailed. Aromatics open with green apple, pear and quince, layered with lemon zest and a gentle floral lift. There is a subtle hint of honey and beeswax already peeking through, along with a clear mineral edge that keeps everything focused.

On the palate it is medium bodied with a clean, lightly waxy texture that is classic for Chenin. The fruit is precise and fresh, driven by a lively line of acidity that gives the wine real energy. Flavours move from citrus and orchard fruit into more savoury notes, with a faint saline, chalky finish that lingers.

Winemaking follows the Chidaine philosophy, organic and biodynamic farming, native ferments and minimal intervention, allowing both site and vintage to come through with clarity.

This is a brilliant wine for seafood. Think oysters, scallop crudo or grilled prawns with lemon and herbs. It also works beautifully with vegetarian dishes like a zucchini and herb tart, white beans with olive oil and rosemary, or a lightly spiced cauliflower dish, where the wine’s freshness and texture lift everything.

Drinking beautifully now for its vibrancy, it will also develop more honeyed and savoury complexity over the next five to ten years.