Vouvray is made exclusively from Chenin Blanc and it is made in a range of styles depending on the vineyard and vintage conditions. In October and early November, Domaine Huet’s grapes are harvested manually in two or three ‘tries’ (passages through the vineyard.) The bunches are pressed intact, and great care is taken that they are pressed gently; fermentation takes place in a mix of large and small oak barrels and larger stainless steel tanks. Natural yeasts are used along with those present in the winery. Domaine Huet never uses cultured yeasts. Almost all the wines have some residual sugar, and range from virtually dry to fully sweet. A light filtration is practiced before bottling.

This beautiful sparkling white offers a vibrantly fresh nose with loads of creamy apricot, succulent melon, round lemon zest tones and a savory touch of nougat. The palate is as decadently vibrant as it is exuberantly delicious. Bright fig, honey and ripe melon flavors are intermingled with racy crystallized ginger notes and a creamy acidity that dances across the palate. Elegantly supple and very sexy. This affordable sparkler shows beautifully on its own or will enliven a broad range of hors d’oeuvres and appetizers.

—Donald