Domaine Thet - Montlouis-sur-Loire Sec 2022

Founded by Doctor of Physics and Nanotechnology Dmitry Khlopin, Domaine Thet represents a new generation of Loire Valley vignerons bringing precision, curiosity and respect for terroir to every bottle. Situated in the heart of Montlouis-sur-Loire, the estate encompasses approximately 10 hectares of Chenin Blanc planted on the appellation's distinctive limestone and sandy-calcareous soils. Working with an environmentally conscious philosophy (organic practices) and minimal intervention in both vineyard and cellar, Dmitry seeks to capture the purity and transparency that have made Montlouis one of the Loire's most fascinating yet underappreciated appellations. The result is a collection of wines that balance vibrant freshness with remarkable depth, offering a modern expression of one of France's great white wine terroirs.

Brilliant pale gold in the glass with flashes of silver-green at the rim, the 2022 Montlouis-sur-Loire Sec immediately reveals the distinctive character of Loire Valley Chenin Blanc. Aromas of crisp orchard fruit rise from the glass… Golden Delicious apple, ripe pear and quince are layered with notes of Meyer lemon, white flowers, crushed limestone and a delicate hint of acacia honey. On the palate, the wine is beautifully poised between richness and tension. Concentrated flavors of citrus-zested yellow apple, and white peach unfold across a textured mid-palate before a streak of vibrant acidity carries the wine toward a long, mineral-driven finish. The warmth of the 2022 vintage contributes generosity and depth, while Montlouis' limestone soils provide lift, precision, and remarkable freshness. This is a Chenin Blanc that manages to be immediately both intellectually engaging and effortlessly enjoyable yet — if patience allows — offers outstanding aging potential. Pair with oysters with green apple mignonette, pan-seared sea scallops with beurre blanc or chicken breast drizzled with a tarragon cream sauce.