2024 François Chidaine Le Chenin d’Ici, Loire Valley

Le Chenin d’Ici is François Chidaine’s more relaxed, early drinking take on Loire Chenin, but it still carries the same attention to detail and vineyard integrity that defines the estate. Sourced from a mix of sites around Vouvray and Montlouis, farmed biodynamically, it offers a snapshot of the region with a little more openness and charm.

The 2024 vintage is bright and immediately appealing. Aromatics lead with green apple, pear and a squeeze of lemon, with a gentle floral lift and a touch of quince in the background. There is a hint of honey and beeswax, but it stays fresh and lively rather than leaning into richness.

On the palate it is light to medium bodied with a clean, flowing texture. The fruit is crisp and precise, driven by a lively line of acidity that gives the wine energy and refreshment. Flavours stay in that citrus and orchard fruit spectrum before finishing with a subtle mineral edge and a lightly savoury note.

Chidaine’s approach remains consistent, native ferment, minimal handling and a focus on purity, resulting in a wine that feels honest and expressive without complication.

This is made for simple, flavour driven food. Oysters, grilled prawns with lemon, or a classic fish and chips all work beautifully. It also handles dishes like a prawn and chilli pasta, salt cod croquettes, or a fresh tomato and herb tart, where the wine’s brightness and acidity lift everything.

Best enjoyed for its freshness and energy over the next few years, offering a lively and very drinkable expression of Loire Chenin.