Domaine Hubert Lignier 'Grand Chaliot' Bourgogne Rouge, Burgundy, France 2023

Domaine Hubert Lignier is a prestigious family-run estate located in the heart of the Côte de Nuits in Burgundy. The estate is known for producing wines of exceptional quality with a strong focus on sustainable farming and traditional winemaking methods. Hubert Lignier, who has built the domaine's reputation, is a master of crafting Pinot Noir wines that embody the soul of Burgundy, blending both purity and complexity. The 'Grand Chaliot' Bourgogne Rouge is a beautiful example of Lignier's ability to express the depth and elegance of the region’s terroir.

• WINEMAKER: Hubert Lignier

• FARMING: Organic farming with a focus on minimal intervention, ensuring that the natural balance of the vineyard is maintained.

• VARIETY: 100% Pinot Noir

• TERROIR: Sourced from the 'Grand Chaliot' vineyard in the Côte de Nuits, known for its excellent exposure and limestone-rich soils that contribute to the wine's structure and minerality. The cool climate and the region’s distinct microclimates allow the Pinot Noir to ripen slowly, ensuring a balance between ripe fruit and fresh acidity.

• VINIFICATION: Hand-harvested with careful selection of the best bunches, the grapes undergo a gentle fermentation with native yeasts in small open-top fermenters. The wine is then aged in a combination of stainless steel and French oak barrels, which enhances its complexity while maintaining the pure fruit character of the Pinot Noir.

• AGING: Aged for 12 months in a combination of stainless steel tanks and seasoned French oak barrels, allowing the wine to develop layers of flavor and structure without overwhelming the delicate fruit profile.

• TASTING NOTES: The 'Grand Chaliot' reveals aromas of fresh red berries, such as raspberry and cherry, interwoven with subtle floral notes of rose petal and a hint of spice. The palate is medium-bodied, with vibrant acidity and fine tannins that offer great balance. Flavors of red fruit dominate, with underlying hints of earth and a refreshing minerality that carries through to the elegant, slightly smoky finish.

• FOOD PAIRINGS: A versatile wine that pairs beautifully with dishes such as roasted poultry, grilled salmon, or duck with berry compote. It also complements a selection of soft cheeses, including Brie and Camembert.

• SCORES: 92 Points – Wine Advocate; 91 Points – Jancis Robinson