2002 Huet Petillant vs. 1996 Duval Leroy

[VouvrayHead]

Well, we finally did it. Tried the pinnacle of Sparkling Vouvray vs. some good vintage champagne.
Of the 4 of us, 2 preferred the Huet, 2 the Duval. Both men for the huet, both women for the champagne.
The Duval Leroy was a bit more aromatic, with a sweet doughiness dominating the nose. The Huet was all about fresh Lemons and minerals, even on the nose.
In the mouth, the Champagne was broad and easy going. Dough and flowers. A bit sweeter than I expected in a brut (though maybe only in comparison to the Huet). Really lovely. Smaller bubbles, for whatever that's worth.
The Huet was more focused, driven by the citrus acidity and minerals with a finish that was 3-4 times longer than the Duval Leroy.
Very interesting to taste side by side. The Huet definitely held its own, and may have even been superior depending on preference.
Either way, what a fabulous pair of wines.
The Huet was $28, the vintage Duval Leroy was $49.