Benoit Daridan
Benoit Daridan is the 7th generation of winemaker. After his studies in viticulture and oenology, he spent two years abroad to complete his training: one year in New Zealand followed by a year in Ribera del Duero (Spain). Back in France, he took a training in the business of wine in Savoie. He came back to Cour-Cheverny to work at Domaine des Huards with Michel Gendrier during 3 years. Benoit Daridan took over the family estate in 2001. Elodie Daridan, Benoit’s wife, also manages family-estate. Benoit and Elodie have 3 children : Louis, Gabin and Blanche.
The vineyard is located in the heart of the Loire valley. In Cour Cheverny between the famous Château de Cheverny and Château de Chambord. The characteristic of that vineyard is a 2 hectare section of 50 year old vines under appellation Cour Cheverny. The unique grape variety for this small appellation is the Romorantin (established by the king Francois 1st). Now days the domain is a 21 hectare vineyard under sustainable agriculture, a lot of care is brought to the vineyard, with respect for the soil, the plants and the environment which lets the authenticity and typicality of the terroir being maintained.
Technical sheets
About Cheverny
Cheverny is a French wine region in the Loire Valley that makes dry white wines, light red wines and rosé wines. The area received AOVDQS (Appellation d'Origine Vin Délimité de Qualité Supérieure) status in 1973, and then AOC (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée) on 26 March 1993 when new regulatory laws were passed. The wine region is spread over 532 hectares, within 24 communes of the Loir-et-Cher department.
The white wines are composed of Sauvignon blanc grapes, at a proportion of 60%–80%, blended with Arbois, Chardonnay or Pineau Blanc de la Loire grapes. A small proportion is made into sparkling wine. The red wines are composed of Gamay grapes, at a proportion of 40%–65%, blended with Pinot noir grapes. Cabernet Franc and Côt can be used to make up to 15% of the wine. Pineau d'Aunis is added to these grape varieties when making rosé.
About Cour-Cheverny
We suppose that Romorantin was introduced to the Loire by King Francis I of France (1494–1547). DNA analysis has shown that it is one of many grapes to be the result of a cross between Gouais blanc and Pinot fin teinturier, making it a sibling of famous varieties such as Chardonnay and Aligoté.
The Cheverny and Cour Cheverny Appellation are almost unknown abroad. Leaving in Blois for 7 years, I wanted to promote the vineyard close by.
Everybody around me was talking about Daridan. I tasted the wines few times with friends and familly and really enjoyed them a lot. I went to meet with Benoit and we decided to work together.