From: Burgundy, France
Varietal: Pinot Noir
“Trilogie” is produced from small holdings of very old plantings in three different Morey-Saint-Denis lieux-dits: “Chenevery,” “Clos Solon,” and “Porroux,” with vines planted between 1936 and 1972. This impressive villages-level wine is denser and more concentrated than the “Tres Girard” above, showing a more classically savory Morey character and a highly attractive sappiness of fruit, as well as a expressive nose. Although it is relatively generous and open-knit, it should reward a few years of cellaring as well.
Critical Acclaim: 92 points Charles Curtis, MW (Decanter): "Ripe plummy fruit accented with notes of spice from the oak ageing and a hint of flowers. With its rich and luxurious texture this should be a boon to those looking for a quality Morey at a good price. Made from purchased fruit from the large lieu-dit at the exit of the village. Lignier has fairly little village-level fruit so this makes a nice addition. Drinking Window: 2023-2035. (Oct 2021)"
89-91 points William Kelley (Wine Advocate): "Aromas of cassis, cherries, baking spices and licorice introduce the 2020 Morey-Saint-Denis Très Girard (négoce), a medium to full-bodied, velvety and nicely concentrated wine built around powdery structuring tannins. Long and seamless, this is a fine effort. (1/20/22)"
89-91 points Neal Martin (Vinous): "From purchased fruit, the 2020 Morey-Saint-Denis Très Girard has a well-defined bouquet with vibrant red berry fruit, touches of white pepper and tea leaves. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannins, fine acidity, slightly chalky in texture with a fresh, saline finish. Give this Morey three to four years in bottle. Drink: 2024-2038. (Dec 2021)"
About. In the heart of Burgundy, Domaine Hubert Lignier symbolizes harmony between tradition and innovation, an emblem of excellence in winemaking. The domain, under the capable stewardship of Hubert and Laurent Lignier, spans nine hectares across some of the most esteemed villages of the region, including Morey Saint Denis, Gevrey Chambertin, Chambolle Musigny, Nuits Saint Georges, and Pommard. This family-managed enterprise produces an impressive array of 24 distinct wines, each articulating the unique nuances of its terroir.
Beginning in the 1990s, the Lignier family steadfastly committed to organic farming, eschewing weedkillers and pesticides, and employing plowing methods to nurture soil health and vine vitality. Their devoted care to the "climates" — distinct vineyard parcels — accentuates each vineyard's unique character and personality.
The winemaking approach at Domaine Hubert Lignier is one of minimal intervention, highlighting the inherent quality of the fruit. The resultant wines are fresh and elegant, offering a satisfying full-bodied richness and a memorable, lingering finish. The estate's portfolio includes a diverse range from Bourgogne to Grand Cru appellations, each authentically expressing its terroir.
The meticulous vinification and aging process at the Domaine is particularly noteworthy. Grapes are de-stemmed and undergo fermentation in open-top cement tanks. A prolonged cold soak ensures optimal extraction, using only natural yeasts. The wines age on lees in barrels for 20 to 24 months without racking post-malolactic fermentation, with a modest use of new oak (20-30%, and up to 50% for Grand Crus Charmes Chambertin and Clos de la Roche). Without fining, the final bottling uses gravity to retain the wines' innate freshness and aging potential.
Under Hubert's watchful eye and his brother Laurent's active assistance, Domaine Hubert Lignier continues to elevate its reputation, crafting wines with notable concentration, depth, and structure that genuinely express its terroir. Wine critic Neil Martin has eloquently described the wines as "pure, sensual, quite intellectual..." a sentiment shared by those who have tasted these unique creations.
Defying conventions and external certifications, Domaine Hubert Lignier's wines are crafted through "sensible combat" (lutte raisonnee) in the vineyards and a staunch refusal to use herbicides. Their organic practices may still need to be officially certified, but the exquisite quality of their wines negates the need for external validation. This independent spirit, coupled with a deep respect for their terroir, has forged a legacy of greatness. The use of new oak barrels is deliberately low, further enhancing each wine's natural purity and unique character.