Domaine Georges Lignier et Fils Clos Saint-Denis Grand Cru 2017

Ground shipping included on 2 or more bottles!

Clos Saint-Denis is a highly sought-after Grand Cru vineyard in Morey-Saint-Denis, perhaps second only to its neighbor, Clos de la Roche. And yet, while the latter is known for its power and structure, this site produces ethereal, perfumed, and beautifully elegant Burgundy. The domaine of Georges Lignier excels at producing wines of this style – and they own more acreage of this plot than anyone else! 94 points for under $160 on a Burgundy of this pedigree is a treat – but only six cases are available!

Today, the domaine is led by Benoit Stehly, the nephew of Georges Lignier, who learned the craft under his uncle for a decade prior to taking over in 2008. In the classic Georges Lignier style, he focuses primarily on aromatic complexity and concentration – whereas most vintners prioritize overall structure and color depth. This 2017 is a perfect example of the house style, with a bright, percolating perfume, yet still plenty of structure and depth – augmented by some 40% new French oak, and the inclusion of roughly 30% whole cluster fruit.

Jancis Robinson famously described this wine as the “Mozart of the Côte de Nuits” and mere seconds after this wine hits the glass, it is hard to argue the description. The flavors waft from the glass with macerated strawberries, cherry blossoms, crushed raspberries, and red roses. In the mouth, strawberries take the lead, with soft veins of cinnamon spice, vanilla, and iron ore conducting a harmonious symphony of depth, complexity, and the well-placed moment of charged discord every now and again – serving to rejuvenate the palate, and further add nuance to the silky and seamless finish. This is an elegance and softness that has become almost rare in Grand Cru Burgundy over the past few years – as most estates seem in a horse race for power, concentration, and intensity. It’s a refreshing effort, and highly prized by lovers of sensual, old-school Burgundy. 94 points, and over $60 Off – these six cases of Grand Cru Clos Saint-Denis are destined to fly from our site quickly...so make haste to snag a couple for your own cellar!

PAIRING IDEAS: The soft, floral, and fruity profile of this wine has me wanting a bit of contrast – a grounding item, as it were. So, with that in mind, I’m opting for a mushroom risotto – with beautiful golden chanterelles sauteed in tarragon and butter, then finished with toasted and hand-ground black pepper, and a lightly dressed handful of watercress overall. That’ll do.