$145.00
Founded in 1928 by Victor Huet and his son Gaston, Domaine Huet is one of the most celebrated and historically significant estates in the Loire Valley, renowned for its exceptional expression of Chenin Blanc. A pioneer of biodynamic viticulture in France, the domaine farms approximately 30 hectares across three historic vineyards: Le Haut-Lieu, Le Mont and Clos du Bourg. Le Mont, acquired by the estate in 1957, is particularly prized for its distinctive terroir and outstanding wines. Its south-facing slopes, characterised by stony soils and deep green clay, produce Chenin Blanc with remarkable freshness, precision and minerality. Huet's commitment to preserving the identity of each vineyard has established it as a benchmark producer of Vouvray.
The 2024 Le Mont Sec is made from Chenin Blanc, the signature grape of Vouvray. Domaine Huet follows a careful, traditional approach to winemaking, allowing the character of the vineyard to take centre stage. The grapes are harvested through successive passes, with careful selection to ensure healthy, ripe fruit. Whole bunches are gently pressed without crushing or destemming, followed by 24 hours of settling. Fermentation takes place partly in tanks and partly in older barrels, using indigenous yeasts naturally present in the winery. Each vineyard is vinified separately, preserving its individual character. The wine is then aged for six months before bottling. The result is a dry Chenin Blanc that reflects Le Mont's signature combination of freshness, lively acidity and mineral precision.
Why do we like it?
For Christmas entertaining, Le Mont Sec is a beautiful match for a festive seafood starter, particularly freshly shucked oysters, scallops with beurre blanc or a luxurious Christmas prawn platter. For the main event, I would recommend roast turkey with chestnut stuffing and a creamy pan sauce, or a beautifully roasted whole salmon with lemon and herbs. The wine's natural acidity and mineral character provide a refreshing counterpoint to richer festive dishes, while its elegance makes it equally at home alongside a Christmas cheese selection, particularly aged Comté or mature goat's cheese. Serve lightly chilled at approximately 11°C, as recommended by the domaine.
Grape Chenin Blanc
Country France
Region Loire Valley
Vintage 2024
