2024 Domaine Huet Vouvray Clos du Bourg Sec, Loire Valley

Surrounded by ancient stone walls that date back centuries, Clos du Bourg is one of Vouvray's most historic and revered vineyard sites. Domaine Huet acquired part of this remarkable vineyard in 1953 and has since produced some of the Loire Valley's most profound wines from its limestone rich slopes. Founded in 1928 by Victor and Gaston Huet, the estate remains the benchmark for Chenin Blanc, with biodynamic farming and meticulous vineyard management at the heart of its philosophy. Few producers anywhere in the world have done more to demonstrate the extraordinary potential of a single grape variety.

Clos du Bourg occupies a privileged position on the Première Côte, with shallow clay soils over the famous tuffeau limestone that underpins the finest wines of Vouvray. Historically, the vineyard supplied wines to the Abbey of Marmoutier and has been prized for centuries for its ability to produce wines of depth, structure and longevity. In its Sec form, the vineyard's mineral power and concentration are expressed with remarkable clarity. The 2024 vintage has delivered a wine of impressive energy and precision.

Bright pale gold in colour, the aromas are immediately captivating. Lemon zest, green apple and ripe pear mingle with notes of quince, white flowers and fresh ginger. Beneath the fruit lies a distinctive chalky minerality, accompanied by hints of lanolin, wet stone and subtle spice. The palate is beautifully concentrated yet finely balanced, offering layers of citrus, orchard fruit and crystalline minerality. There is a wonderful sense of tension throughout, with vibrant acidity driving the wine across the palate while a textured, almost saline character adds complexity. The finish is exceptionally long, precise and persistent.

This is a magnificent partner for oysters, grilled lobster, turbot with beurre blanc, sashimi, crab linguine or a warm goat's cheese and herb tart. The wine's structure and acidity make it equally rewarding alongside roasted root vegetables and earthy vegetarian dishes. While already impressive, Clos du Bourg is famous for its ability to evolve over decades, gradually developing honeyed, truffle and waxy complexities while retaining freshness.

Cellaring: Drink from now through 2048 and beyond.