The 2005 Domaine Huet Vouvray Le Haut-Lieu Moelleux Museum Release is a benchmark Chenin Blanc from the historic Le Haut-Lieu vineyard in Vouvray, Loire Valley, France. Sourced from deep brown clay over limestone soils and farmed biodynamically, the grapes are hand-harvested over several selective passes to capture perfectly botrytised fruit. Fermentation with indigenous yeasts takes place in a combination of tank and old oak, followed by maturation through the winter in seasoned barrels. The bouquet is beautifully complex, offering aromas of Mirabelle plum, baked pear, white flowers, honey, beeswax and delicate spice, with hints of white truffle developing with age.
On the palate, it is lusciously sweet yet impeccably balanced by Huet's signature vibrant acidity. Layers of ripe stone fruit, candied citrus, honey and baked nectarine unfold alongside notes of barley, bitter orange and subtle botrytis richness, finishing with remarkable precision, energy and exceptional length. The 2005 vintage is widely regarded as one of the estate's finest modern releases and has the structure to evolve gracefully for decades.
Ben's Recommendation: At Wine More Cellars, this is an outstanding choice for collectors and lovers of world-class sweet Chenin Blanc. Pair it with foie gras, blue cheese, roast duck with fruit glaze, tarte Tatin or stone-fruit desserts. Drinking beautifully now, it will continue to evolve for the next 25–40 years, gaining even greater complexity while retaining its remarkable freshness.
