Domaine François Chidaine Montlouis Rive Gauche 2020

Domaine François Chidaine Montlouis Rive Gauche is a rare botrytised sweet Chenin Blanc, the richest wine the domaine makes.

Montlouis-sur-Loire lies on the left bank of the Loire opposite Vouvray, on sandier soils over tuffeau limestone, and François Chidaine is its best-known grower. Unlike Vouvray, Montlouis rarely sees the autumn conditions needed for noble rot, so the domaine's vins liquoreux appear only in exceptional seasons; the last time this cuvée was shipped it was from 2009 and carried the name Les Lys. It is made exclusively from botrytised fruit, blended from three vineyards picked over successive passes through the rows. Fermentation ran with native yeasts and the wine was matured in demi-muid. The ferment stopped with just over 100 grams per litre of residual sugar, a level that would flatten a lesser Chenin but here sits inside a vibrant, well-balanced frame. Layered and complex, it shows the precision Chidaine brings to a style he makes only when the season allows.

Drink now or cellar for two decades and more. Serve at 8-10°C with foie gras, blue cheese or a tarte tatin.

*Every effort is made to ensure the current vintage is accurate; however, variations can occur. If you are after a specific vintage, please contact us prior to ordering.