Domaine François Chidaine - Touraine - Sauvignon Blanc 2025
Located in Montlouis-sur-Loire, François Chidaine is among the winemakers who have profoundly renewed the interpretation of the terroirs of Touraine. After founding his estate in 1989, he developed a vineyard mainly dedicated to chenin, before extending his work towards the Cher valley. The Touraine plots thus allow the estate to explore other Loire grape varieties, among which Sauvignon Blanc holds a privileged place. The vines are worked without chemical phytosanitary products, with soil tillage, sowing of melliferous plants, and preparations derived from plant, animal, or mineral materials. This approach aims to strengthen the plant's autonomy and preserve the biological vitality of the plots. The temperate climate of the region, located at the meeting point of oceanic and continental influences, favors a gradual ripening of the grapes. This Touraine Sauvignon reflects this search for honesty through a dry, precise white wine free from superfluous winemaking effects.
The Sauvignon Blanc 2025 comes from plots located in the Cher valley, notably around Chissay-en-Touraine and Saint-Julien-de-Chédon. The soils combine clay with flint and clay-limestone formations, two components that bring relief, freshness, and depth to the wine. The grapes are hand-harvested by the estate team to preserve their integrity until the winery. The harvest then undergoes direct pressing, followed by cold settling intended to gently clarify the juices. Fermentation takes place at low temperature in stainless steel tanks, under the action of indigenous yeasts. This vinification preserves the varietal expression of the Sauvignon while avoiding an overly demonstrative aromatic profile. Aging on lees continues in the tank until bottling, bringing suppleness and structure to the wine.
The pale yellow robe is clear, animated with green and silvery reflections. The nose opens on grapefruit, fresh lemon, and white flowers, then gains nuances of gooseberry, blackcurrant leaf, and wet stone. The expression remains clear and measured, without excessive vegetal notes or pronounced exotic ripeness. On the palate, the attack is frank, carried by a lively acidity that immediately gives the wine momentum. Aging on lees brings a supple texture to the mid-palate and balances the natural tension of the grape variety. The finish extends on citrus, fine bitterness, and a discreet chalky sensation. This Touraine Sauvignon will accompany oysters, ceviche, marinated fish, asparagus, crayfish, sushi, or fresh goat cheese.
Grape variety: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
