Le Haut Lieu Moelleux 1ère Trie 2018

Wine Description for Le Haut Lieu Moelleux 1ère Trie 2018 by Huet

Colour & Appearance

Luminous, dense golden yellow with fine green reflexes – a visual promise of the freshness that distinguishes this noble sweet Chenin Blanc despite its opulence.

Nose

Impressively open and multi-layered: apple sauce, quince jelly and white peach purée dominate, underpinned by subtle anise and ginger notes. Floral accents of acacia blossom and chamomile lend elegance, whilst green nuances of nettle and summer savory provide tension – a perfumed interplay of aromas between ripeness and freshness.

Palate

Here the true class reveals itself: the sweetness never feels intrusive, but rather hovers across the tongue. Citrus and fresh apple elegantly contrast the residual sweetness, whilst a delicate spicy touch provides additional liveliness. Unencumbered, light-footed – a remarkable achievement for a moelleux. Still young, the wine benefits from decanting and should not be served too cold.

Finish

Long and fresh with persistent fruit and a fine spice that lingers for some time. The acidity structure promises excellent ageing potential over the coming years.

Terroir & Origin

From the historic Haut-Lieu vineyard site, the birthplace of Domaine Huet since 1928. Fifteen hectares above the Vouvray plateau on deep brown clay, which imparts the wines their characteristic fruitiness and freshness.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Chenin Blanc in its noblest form as 1ère Trie Moelleux – the first harvest of noble sweet grapes. At 12.5% alcohol, it displays the perfect balance between concentration and elegance.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Classically with foie gras or blue cheese. Surprisingly successful: yellow lentils with dates, honey and jalapeño or wild spinach with béchamel and ham. As a dessert companion to wild strawberries with peach, it is unbeatable.

Special Features

A prime example of Vouvray’s ability to unite sweetness and freshness. The biodynamically managed Domaine Huet is regarded as a reference point of the appellation – this 2018 vintage impressively confirms this reputation.