Sounds a bit harsh. In the context of inflation/price increases in general, $45 seems pretty standard for this level of white wine in the Loire. These aren’t the luxury micro-cuvees ($100+) but they are also not basic regional wines ($20).
That said, I too buy less Chidaine than 20 years ago. Other producers now catch my eye. And I’ll also admit that I haven’t tasted the Bournais in many years. It used to be one of my favorite Chidaine wines 10-20 years ago, but it was always on the bigger side and I can imagine it’s tough going in the recent warm vintages.
I’ve been focusing on Les Choisilles and Clos du Breuil, especially 2021, which I’ve liked much more than 2022 or 2023. Yesterday I had my last bottle of 2021 Chidaine Clos du Breuil and really enjoyed the ripe flavors and decent body married with a nice bitter bite, evoking the days of old, although still in a fuller modern frame. Might be interesting to keep following the 2021s over time, but not sure I will…
2022 Domaine de la Pépière Muscadet de Sèvre-et-Maine Le Repos du Mouton - France, Loire Valley, Pays Nantais, Muscadet de Sèvre-et-Maine (16.2.2026)
A very gentle nose with restrained citrus fruit, a whiff of honey and herbs, some whipped cream and a flinty note. On the palate it tells a similar story with a rather kind entry and roundness derived from the extended lees ageing. Midway through the acidity really picks up, bringing plenty of tension and firmness to the mouthfeel, eventually leading to a mouth-watering and somewhat tight finish. Not a showy wine as tends to be the case for Muscadet but there is a degree of seriousness to this without a doubt, especially compared to the Les Gras Moutons which is all funq. Not sure where this might go from here, I think I prefer the little sister at the end of the day - partially for sentimental reasons - but all things considered this is a neat drink. There is an aniseed note on the palate that I simultaneously like and dislike so I guess it’s net neutral.
A new prime (certainly pricewise) address, a project by the (former?) winemaker at Clos Rougeard. One should approach such ventures with a healthy dose of skepticism but this is a beautiful bottle of Chenin.
Sappy yellow fruit, salinity, good acidity, all good things. 12.5% On par with a recent Collier Saumur Blanc, only with more bite.
