Wines Montlouis-sur-Loire Domaine La Taille aux Loups - Hauts de Husseau - 2022

Viniou Reviews

The Domaine La Taille aux Loups 2022, Cuvée Hauts de Husseau, hails from Montlouis-sur-Loire AOC in the heart of France’s Loire Valley. This wine is crafted exclusively from Chenin Blanc, the emblematic grape of the region, and produced in a dry (sec) style. With organic certification, this cuvée reflects meticulous respect for both vineyard and environment. The terroir of Husseau is defined by its flinty clay soils over limestone, which contribute to the wine’s striking minerality and tension. Jacky Blot, the renowned vigneron behind the domaine, employs precise viticulture and gentle winemaking—often fermenting and ageing in oak barrels, revealing depth and complexity without masking the innate vibrancy of Chenin.

Montlouis-sur-Loire sits across the river from Vouvray, benefitting from a similar cool continental climate influenced by the Loire River’s moderating effect. This setting enables grapes to ripen slowly, preserving natural acidity and developing nuanced flavours. The region’s soils play a critical role in the style of the wines, imparting both freshness and the signature mineral backbone. With a rich vinous history dating back to the Middle Ages, Montlouis-sur-Loire has emerged in recent decades as a prime source for pure, expressive Chenin Blanc under visionary producers like Domaine La Taille aux Loups.

For culinary pairings, the wine’s bright citrus and orchard fruit notes, subtle florality and energetic minerality lend themselves beautifully to a range of dishes. Classic Loire pairings include river fish such as pike perch or trout with beurre blanc, goat’s cheeses like Sainte-Maure de Touraine, or shellfish like oysters and scallops. The wine’s structure and length can also complement more elaborate fare, such as roasted guinea fowl with cream and herbs, or a delicate risotto with wild mushrooms.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this Chenin Blanc chilled but not too cold, ideally between 10-12°C, to allow the complexity and elegance of its aromas to fully unfold. Decanting for a short period (about 30 minutes) can further enhance its textural richness and aromatic profile. This wine offers immediate pleasure yet also promises rewarding evolution over 5–10 years in the cellar.