Domaine Thibault Liger-Belair Chambolle-Musigny “Vieilles Vignes” 2020

Winery Background and History

Domaine Thibault Liger-Belair, established in 2001, is a family-owned estate located in Nuits-Saint-Georges, Burgundy, France. The Liger-Belair family has a rich history in Burgundy’s wine industry, dating back to the early 18th century. Thibault Liger-Belair, the current proprietor and winemaker, has revitalized the family’s winemaking tradition by focusing on organic and biodynamic practices. The estate comprises several parcels across esteemed appellations, including Chambolle-Musigny, where the “Vieilles Vignes” (Old Vines) cuvée is produced. Domaine Thibault Liger-Belair is recognized for crafting wines that express the purity and complexity of their terroirs.

Producer and Winemaker

Thibault Liger-Belair leads the estate with a philosophy centered on minimal intervention and respect for the environment. His approach emphasizes the importance of terroir, allowing each vineyard site to impart its distinct character into the wines. Through careful vineyard management and traditional winemaking techniques, Thibault crafts wines that embody the elegance and finesse of Burgundy.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The Chambolle-Musigny “Vieilles Vignes” cuvée is a blend of five terroirs within the Chambolle-Musigny appellation: Les Mal Carrées, Les Maladières, Derrière le Four, Les Fremières, and Les Gamaires. The vines were planted between 1952 and 1963, contributing to the wine’s complexity and depth. The vineyards benefit from a continental climate, characterized by warm summers and cool winters, which is ideal for Pinot Noir cultivation. The soils are predominantly fine clay with underlying limestone, providing excellent drainage and contributing to the elegance and minerality of the wines. The varied elevations and exposures within these parcels create a range of microclimates, allowing for the cultivation of grapes with diverse flavor profiles. 

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

The 2020 Chambolle-Musigny “Vieilles Vignes” is crafted from 100% Pinot Noir grapes.

Vinification & Aging Methods

The grapes are hand-harvested and sorted to ensure optimal quality. Fermentation is carried out using indigenous yeasts, with 40% whole clusters, during a three-week cuvaison. This process allows for gentle extraction of color, flavor, and tannins. The wine is then aged in French oak barrels, with 30% new oak, for approximately 18 months. This careful aging process aims to integrate the oak influence while preserving the wine’s inherent elegance and freshness. 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

The 2020 vintage has an alcohol content of approximately 13.5% ABV.

Tasting Notes

This wine presents notes of red and black cherry, violet, and spice. The light but well-defined licorice-tinged bouquet opens nicely with aeration. On the palate, it is medium-bodied, offering succulent black cherries and cassis on the entry, with fine acidity. The finish is initially tight but softens with time, revealing a harmonious and elegant profile. 

Food & Wine Pairing

The 2020 Chambolle-Musigny “Vieilles Vignes” pairs well with dishes such as roasted duck, lamb, or game birds. It also complements earthy mushroom dishes and aged cheeses, enhancing the wine’s nuanced flavors.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its aromatic complexity, serve this wine at a temperature of 16-18°C (60-64°F). Decanting for about 30 minutes prior to serving can help open up its bouquet.

Storage and Aging Potential

This wine has the potential to age gracefully for 10-15 years under proper cellaring conditions, developing further complexity and depth over time.