Domaine François Chidaine Vin de France Les Argiles 2023 Vouvray

Chidaine's Les Argiles is a dry Chenin Blanc from clay-rich Vouvray vineyards, labelled Vin de France because it is made across the river in Montlouis.

The wine is entirely Vouvray fruit, but appellation rules do not permit the name when the wine is vinified outside the zone, so it appears as Vin de France. François Chidaine works a series of clay sites — argiles means clay — surrounding the Clos Baudoin, among them l'Espagnole, la Chatterie, l'Homme, la Reugnières and le Haut-Lieu, the last of these better known through Huet. Set back from the river, these parcels are largely planted to 40-year-old bush vines on deep chalky clay over limestone subsoil. The combination is deliberate: the clay gives density and generosity of fruit, the limestone the vertical, spicy energy that runs underneath. Winemaking is old-school and precise, with hand harvesting and long, unhurried élevage, and the wine is finished dry.

It can be drunk now with air but will gain from five to ten years; serve at 10–12°C with roast pork, poultry in cream or a mature 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.