Francois Chidaine 2025 Touraine Rose Grolleau, Gamay, Loire Valley

The titanic talent of François Chidaine is mostly showcased through his Chenin Blancs from vineyards in Montlouis and Vouvray.  Each summer, though, we are treated to the estate’s delightful rosés, and the 2025 version is a 50-50 blend of Gamay and the local red variety Grolleau.  Unlike the rosés of the south of France, this wine not only excels as an aperitif, it can be enjoyed with all kinds of food sautéed in butter or grilled.  The nose of gooseberries has some floral notes, a medium-full wine with a chalky texture. Excellent acidity and beautiful tension bring up the solid mineral core. Very refreshing, but surprisingly complex, this is a perennial favorite where supply never is sufficient for demand. Amazing value and very food friendly!