# Clos Habert (2020)

- **Producer:** François Chidaine
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Chenin Blanc
- **Region:** Loire, France
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Average price:** €27
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–12 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** pear, grapefruit, lemon, apricot, apple, peach, pastry, bread dough, biscuit, honey, wet stones, cinnamon, ginger, dried apricot, almond

## About this wine

Clos Habert is a biodynamically farmed Chenin Blanc from the Montlouis-sur-Loire appellation in France's Loire Valley. Produced by François Chidaine, a leading figure in the region known for his commitment to biodynamic practices and terroir expression, the wine originates from vines grown on silex and clay soils over a tuffeau limestone bedrock. Chidaine established his estate in 1989 and has since focused on showcasing the distinctiveness of various vineyard plots, particularly for Chenin Blanc. The 2020 vintage is noted for its balanced profile.

## Interesting facts

- François Chidaine is the chairman of the Montlouis appellation's trade union.
- The estate's vines draw nutrients from soils resting on tuffeau limestone bedrock.
- Biodynamic farming eschews synthetic products, relying on natural preparations.
- Wines from Chidaine are often compared to the high standards set by Didier Dagueneau.

## Food pairing

The wine's off-dry character and vivifying acidity provide a delightful contrast to richer dishes, cutting through fat and cleansing the palate. Its subtle sweetness complements creamy textures and fruit-forward elements, while its minerality harmonizes with earthy flavors and certain cheeses.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Clos Habert begins with manual harvesting. Fermentation is initiated by indigenous yeasts in 600-liter barrels (demi-muids), with malolactic fermentation intentionally avoided. The wine is then aged for approximately 11 months on its fine lees in these demi-muids, with about 10% of the barrels being new. The estate employs biodynamic farming practices, eschewing synthetic products and utilizing natural preparations.