Wines Vouvray Le Haut-Lieu - Moelleux 1er Trie - 2003

Le Haut-Lieu Cuvée Moelleux 1er Trie 2003 is a brilliant example of the remarkable sweet wines produced in the Vouvray appellation of the Loire Valley. This particular cuvée is crafted exclusively from Chenin Blanc grapes, harvested from the estate's original vineyard, "Le Haut-Lieu," established in 1928. The term "1er Trie" refers to the meticulous selection of grapes, picked in several passes to ensure only the ripest, botrytised berries are chosen, contributing to this wine's extraordinary concentration and complexity. The 2003 vintage was marked by a notably hot summer, resulting in exceptionally ripe fruit and a rich, opulent style. The fermentation is typically slow and carried out in old oak barrels, allowing the natural sweetness and aromatic intensity of the Chenin Blanc to shine.

Vouvray is situated on the northern banks of the Loire River, east of Tours, in the broader region of Touraine. The area's unique terroir consists of clay-limestone soils known as "tuffeau," which impart a distinct minerality and freshness to the wines. The cool, temperate climate, coupled with the beneficial influence of morning mists from the Loire River, promotes the development of noble rot (Botrytis cinerea), essential for producing high-quality moelleux wines. Vouvray has a centuries-old tradition of winemaking, dating back to the Middle Ages, and is celebrated for its versatility in crafting sparkling, dry, and sweet expressions from Chenin Blanc.

For food pairings, this wine's luscious sweetness and vibrant acidity make it a perfect match for richly flavoured dishes. It pairs beautifully with foie gras, blue cheeses such as Roquefort, or fruit-based desserts like tarte tatin. For a more savoury and regional approach, you might consider pairing it with rillettes de Tours or a terrine featuring dried fruits and nuts. Its intensity and structure also allow it to complement spicy Asian cuisine, such as Thai curry with coconut milk.

When serving Le Haut-Lieu Moelleux 1er Trie 2003, it is best enjoyed slightly chilled, ideally at a temperature between 8-10°C. Allow the wine a little time in the glass to unfold its aromatic complexity of honey, quince, candied citrus, and subtle spice. This wine has excellent aging potential but is already delivering considerable pleasure and sophistication.