The winery
François Chidaine
Historic producer in the Touraine (Montlouis-sur-Loire) specializing in Chenin Blanc; known for organic and biodynamic viticulture and for a range spanning dry whites, moelleux and sparkling wines.
- Valle della Loira (Touraine / Montlouis-sur-Loire, Vouvray) · Francia
- Since 1989
- 9 products
The story
Francois Chidaine is originally from Montlouis-sur-Loire and established his own domaine in the late 1980s, building on the family estate. The project grew gradually: from his settlement in 1989 to the expansion of vineyard parcels in Montlouis, Vouvray and Touraine; conversion to organic farming and the subsequent adoption of biodynamic practices have been central to its development. His wife Manuéla opened the tasting room "La Cave Insolite" on the riverfront in Montlouis.
Production philosophy
Work focused on soil conservation and biodynamics: organic farming practices, use of biodynamic preparations, cover cropping, hand-harvesting with multiple selection passes, and careful winemaking that respects the character of each parcel. The approach favors minimal intervention in the winery and the enhancement of the terroir.
Terroir and vineyards
Vineyards are spread across Montlouis‑sur‑Loire, Vouvray and areas within the Touraine appellation, on soils typical of the region including tuffeau, flinty clays and clay‑limestone. The estate has parcels on both banks of the Loire, producing wines that reflect the minerality of the local terroirs.
Characteristics
- Grape varieties
- Chenin Blanc
- Sauvignon
- Pinot Noir
- Grolleau
- Cabernet Franc
- Côt (Malbec)
- Pineau d'Aunis
- Hectares
- 50.0
What makes it distinctive
- Strong focus on Chenin Blanc, with cuvées ranging from dry to liquoreux and sparkling.
- Certified agricultural practices: conversion to organic and adoption of biodynamic practices.
- Vineyards distributed across several parcels on tuffeau, flinty clay and clay‑limestone soils.
- La Cave Insolite: a family-run shop and tasting room in Montlouis.
- Recognized as an influential producer in promoting the Montlouis-sur-Loire appellation.