Thibault Liger-Belair Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru 2019 (750ML)

95 DE / 94-96 JM / 17 JR

Liger-Belair owns a 0.75ha parcel planted to old vines in the centre of the vineyard, on the border with Echézeaux, in the section of the Clos known as Baudes Basses. A large proportion of the grapes are fermented as whole clusters, producing remarkably pure, immediately attractive ripe black fruit, dressed with hints of spice and fresh violets. The texture is dense and firm, but very polished and elegant. A very sophisticated Clos de Vougeot.

The old vines from 1944 were vinified with their stems, whereas the younger vines (1992) which had also been slightly frosted were destalked. The overall blend included just under half whole bunches. Rich full purple, detailed nose alongside its natural blockbuster attitude. Heady but happy here. Rich succulent deep raspberry fruit, well balanced tannins, very complete and quite persistent. Tasted: November 2020.—Jasper Morris, Inside Burgundy

Cask sample. Bright crimson – not too deep. Not quite as oxidised as the Charmes-Chambertin but not the freshest sample. Sinewy and refreshing rather than sweet with masses of fine tannin. This should age well. Savoury and intriguing.—Jancis Robinson