Chidaine 2021 Montlouis "les Choisilles"

Francois Chidaine has been one of the leading proponents of organic and regenerative agriculture in the Loire valley and has had a profound influence on the resurgence of Montlouis. Les Choisilles is vinified dry, from parcels of 30 to 90 year-old vines on clay and silica soils over limestone "tuffeau." The soils are kept "green," beneficial plants grow in the rows and only organic composts are used. Fermentation of Les Choisilles can last up to six months, with wild yeasts, no malo-lactic, aging on the lees in large barrels.  The 2021 is a very beautiful and vibrant "Les Choisilles" whch showed beautiful density and firm acidity in this cooler vintage when tasted with the Chidaines in January 2023, with pretty aromas of lime-flower, pineapple, lemon and pear. The palate is silky, vibrant and well-structured with chalk and mineral flavors underlying bright pear and citrus fruit, finishing bone dry with firm minerality in the very long finish.  Though delicious now,  served with grilled fish, fish and chicken in sauce and shellfish, the Les Choisilles will open nicely over the next ten to fifteen years and should be considered for the cellar.