Le Haut-Lieu sec 2019

Sparkling straw yellow, bright reflections

Although these wines are absolute long-distance runners, 2019 already convinces me completely. As a self-confessed fan of meagre Chenin blanc with little fruit profile, the 2019 Le Haut-Lieu sec from Domaine Huet appeals to me enormously. Fully ripe apricot, peach, grapefruit and bitter orange make the start. Lime and cool on the nose. This combination of lime and citrus fruits inevitably makes me think of Andalusia and the flora there. A delicate green note resonates as the temperature rises. After a while, floral notes, like apple blossom, spread. The tobacco note, which is often typical of Huet when it matures, can be faintly sensed as it develops. This very elegant and subtle impression has a long lasting effect on me.

On the palate, it is absolutely clear and precise. Very straightforward and with little fruit profile, it corresponds exactly to my type of this grape variety. Lime makes the 2019 Le Haut-Lieu sec appear puristic and sparse. Full of purity and elegance, it makes its way. With increasing oxygen, the ripe stone fruit as well as grapefruit also come to the fore. With a little lime zest and tangerine peel, it heads towards the finale in a bitter-sweet moment. The finish is stony, iodiney and juicy at the same time. This animates enormously to drink.