Domaine François Chidaine Vin de France Les Argiles 2022 Vouvray

Domaine François Chidaine Les Argiles is Chenin Blanc grown in Vouvray but labelled Vin de France, because it is made across the river in Montlouis.

The wine is 100 per cent Chenin Blanc from Vouvray, but appellation rules require Vouvray to be vinified within its own boundaries and Chidaine ferments and ages everything at his Montlouis cellar. The label therefore reads Vin de France, a technicality that has not troubled his customers. The fruit comes from a series of clay-rich Vouvray sites — argiles means clay — that surround the Clos Baudoin, among them l’Espagnole, la Chatterie, l’Homme, la Reugnières and le Haut-Lieu, the last of these the vineyard made famous by Huet. Set back from the river, these parcels are largely 40-year-old bush vines on deep chalky clay over a limestone subsoil, a combination that gives both the density and generosity of the clay and the more vertical, spicy energy of the limestone.

Good now and will develop over a decade. Serve at 10-12°C with roast chicken, grilled pork belly or a firm goat’s cheese.

*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.