Georges Lignier Morey-Saint-Denis Rouge

Georges Lignier is the cousin of Hubert Lignier, but their wines are very different. Domaine Georges Lignier produces more delicate, subtle reds, whereas those of Hubert Lignier are more structured and intense.

Now run by nephew Benoit Stehly, Domaine Georges Lignier has significant vineyard holdings in Morey-Saint-Denis, including the largest share (1.49ha) of the famed Clos-Saint-Denis Grand Cru. They offer some of the best value in the Cote d'Or. Benoit is a strong advocate for grass cover cropping between rows, providing competition for the vines and forcing their roots deeper into the soil in search of nutrients.

In the cellar, Benoit cools his grapes prior to fermentation. He uses around 30% whole-bunch, and only uses indigenous yeasts for his ferments. Fermentation is carried out in tank, pumping over twice a day. He matures his wine in barrel with some of the lees for 18 months. Using exclusively old oak for the village wines, and 30-50% new oak for Premier and Grand Cru.

• Expect juicy cherry and delicate raspberry fruit, rose petal and violet florals, white pepper, and a chalky minerality
• Pairs well with lighter lamb dishes, carpaccio, tuna steak, or a tomato salad