2017 Georges Lignier et Fils, Bonnes Mares Grand Cru

Barrel sample. No hail. Vines from his great grandmother. 30% whole bunch. 40% new oak. Planted 1930 – they need to replace some vines – average age is 70 years. Old vines are less affected by trunk diseases such as esca, ie they are affected but not generally killed by it because their lower vigour can cope with less sap flow. On top of a small quarry. Limestone and a more feminine style of Bonnes Mares. 0.29 ha (0.72 acres). Very small yield. Light cherry red. Much sweeter and more red fruited than the Clos de la Roche with a touch of oak spice. Smells more gourmand , richer, fuller in the mouth and rounded with a very nice freshness at the core. Lovely balance between the generous fruit and the precise vibrant acidity. Very long. Finely textured, compact tannins clothed in bright fruit. (JH)