Wines Haspengouw Wine Clos Opleeuw - Chardonnay - 2017

Viniou Reviews

Clos Opleeuw's Cuvée Chardonnay 2017, from the Haspengouwse Wijn AOC in Limburg, Belgium, is a remarkable white wine that reflects the emerging finesse of Belgian viticulture. This vintage, crafted exclusively from Chardonnay, offers a pure and focused varietal expression. The grapes are hand-picked from south-facing slopes on loamy limestone soils, encouraging aromatic precision and a balanced ripeness. Vinification typically involves gentle pressing and fermentation in stainless steel or oak, aiming to preserve the grape’s freshness while allowing subtle nuances of terroir and, where relevant, a refined touch of oak maturation to develop. The 2017 vintage is characterised by a vibrant acidity, clear minerality, and notes of green apple, citrus, and white flowers, underscored by gentle hints of hazelnut and brioche if partially barrel-aged.

The Haspengouw region in Limburg is situated in the northeast of Belgium and possesses a cool continental climate. Summers are moderate, enabling a gradual maturation of grapes, vital for retaining acidity and aromatic complexity in white wines like Chardonnay. The soil here is rich in loam and limestone, which imparts a crisp minerality and notable freshness to the wines. Though Belgium’s winemaking history is relatively recent compared to its neighbours, the region boasts a dynamic, experimental spirit and has quickly earned recognition for high-quality whites with impressive structure and elegance.

This Chardonnay's linear profile and subtle creaminess make it a superb match for refined dishes such as poached freshwater fish, shellfish, or lightly grilled scallops. Classic pairings like vol-au-vent, a staple of Belgian cuisine, emphasize the wine’s texture and acidity. It also pairs beautifully with poultry in a gentle cream sauce or even a young, lightly ripened local cheese.

To fully appreciate Clos Opleeuw's Cuvée Chardonnay 2017, serve it chilled but not too cold, ideally between 10-12°C. This temperature allows the wine’s aromatic bouquet and subtle textural richness to emerge harmoniously, providing an elegant tasting experience.