Le Haut-Lieu sec 2022 375ml

Wine description for Le Haut-Lieu sec 2022 375ml from Huet

Colour & appearance

Medium straw yellow with brilliant clarity in the glass - a Chenin Blanc that already promises freshness and precision visually.

Nose

This 2022 Haut-Lieu Sec reveals a remarkable aromatic complexity that is both airy and concentrated. The nose is dominated by Dog roses and floral notes, underlaid with clear flavours of Apple and pear, whose peel character gives the wine additional depth. This is accompanied by hints of Hibiscus and a fascinating association with homemade peach iced tea - refreshing, natural, incredibly inviting.

Palate

On the palate, the wine shows its most elegant side: silky, dense and remarkably animated. The fruit palette ranges between white-fleshed stone fruit and Pome fruit, complemented by subtle notes of Wax and Tobacco. The acidity is perfectly integrated, the alcohol of 13.5% absolutely imperceptible. Characteristic of the Haut-Lieu: a fine, savoury bitterness of Zests and Herbs with hints of green nuts. The slightly chalky minerality, elegant acidity and subtle salinity make this wine a prime example of precise, terroir-influenced Vouvray. With only 5.6 grams of residual sugar, it remains bone-dry and focussed.

General information

The Haut-Lieu is the historic nucleus of the Huet vineyard, acquired in 1928 and still the centrepiece of production today. The five hectares on the Vouvray plateau with deep brown clay over yellow tuffeau limestone produce exceptional Chenin Blancs year after year. 2022 was a challenging vintage with an early harvest (from 8 September) and a six-week harvest period. Spontaneous fermentation and ageing in used demi-muids emphasise the natural approach.

Food pairing suggestions

A versatile food companion: perfect with Norway lobster with saffron beurre blanc and grapefruit wedges, Wild salmon sashimi or Vegetable tempura with mild soya sauce. The wine's saltiness and minerality harmonise perfectly with seafood and Asian cuisine.

Special features

This wine is already accessible and seductive now, but has the potential for years of development. Chenin Blanc from Vouvray is known to age beautifully - a few bottles should definitely be kept in the cellar.