# Château de Tigné Chardonnay (2023)

- **Producer:** Château de Tigné
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay
- **Region:** Loire, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–12 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** lemon, peach, citrus, grapefruit, apricot, butter, cream

## About this wine

Château de Tigné's 2023 Chardonnay is a Vin de Pays Val de Loire produced from 100% Chardonnay grapes grown on schist soils in the Anjou appellation. The estate, owned by actor Gérard Depardieu, has a history dating back to the 15th century and is committed to sustainable viticulture, holding Terra Vitis certification. The vines are approximately 20 years old, and farming emphasizes minimal intervention and soil cultivation to express the terroir.

## Interesting facts

- Owned by French actor Gérard Depardieu since 1989.
- Estate dates back to the 15th century.
- Terra Vitis certified since 2013.
- Harvest timing is influenced by local squirrels.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium+ body and potential richness can stand up to substantial dishes. Its acidity can cut through the richness of creamy sauces and fatty proteins, while its fruit and mineral notes can complement lighter proteins and vegetables.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for this Chardonnay involves alcoholic fermentation in stainless steel tanks at low temperatures. Depending on the vintage, malolactic fermentation may be partial or total. The wine is subsequently aged on its fine lees until early bottling. Farming practices focus on minimal intervention, with soil cultivation and no added fertilizers, aiming to express the schist terroir. The grapes are harvested at optimal ripeness.