2024 Francois Chidaine Montlouis Clos du Breuil, Loire Valley

Clos du Breuil sits on classic tuffeau limestone in Montlouis, a site that naturally delivers precision and a strong mineral line, and François Chidaine has long shown how compelling it can be with careful, biodynamic farming. This is one of his more focused cuvées, where the vineyard’s chalky backbone takes centre stage.

The 2024 vintage is bright and tightly wound. Aromatics open with green apple, pear and quince, layered with lemon zest and a hint of grapefruit. There is a subtle floral lift, along with a touch of honey and beeswax beginning to emerge, but it is the chalky, stony edge that really defines the wine.

On the palate it is medium bodied with a firm line of acidity driving everything forward. The texture is lightly waxy but very controlled, with orchard fruit moving into more savoury notes, almond, spice and a faint saline touch. The finish is long, clean and distinctly mineral, tightening up as it lingers.

Chidaine’s winemaking remains restrained and precise, native ferments, minimal intervention and careful élevage allowing the vineyard to speak with clarity.

This is a great match for seafood with freshness and intensity. Think oysters with a sharp mignonette, grilled sardines with lemon, or a prawn and chilli pasta. It also works beautifully with dishes like salt cod fritters, a simple potato tortilla, or roast chicken with herbs, the wine’s acidity and mineral line keeping everything lively.

Already showing well with a bit of air, it will reward patience over the next ten to fifteen years, developing more honeyed, nutty and savoury complexity while holding its structure.