Description
History
Thibault Liger-Belair took over his historic family estate in Nuits-Saint-Georges in 2001, bringing a deeply rooted Burgundian winemaking tradition back under his direct management. Les Belles Croix joined the range with its first vintage in 2018. The vineyard covers just 0.70 hectares and lies south of Nuits-Saint-Georges, next to the Premier Cru Les Pruliers. The vines were planted in 1954 and grow on deep soils dominated by fine clay rich in organic matter, with little limestone and numerous iron-oxide stones locally known as “chailles”. This distinctive terroir is largely responsible for the wine’s characteristic density and roundness.
Grape variety
100% Pinot Noir.
Vinification
The grapes are harvested by hand, with a proportion vinified as whole bunches. Fermentation lasts approximately three weeks and involves very gentle extraction in order to preserve aromatic finesse and maintain a balanced tannic structure. The wine is then aged for 18 months in oak barrels, approximately 40% of which are new. The result is a Pinot Noir combining structure and depth with the freshness and elegance characteristic of Thibault Liger-Belair’s style.
Alcohol content
13.5% ABV.
Tasting notes
Deep, bright ruby red. The nose is rich and expressive, revealing black cherry, blueberry and blackcurrant alongside spicy notes and subtle floral and earthy nuances. The palate is broad, dense and silky, with concentrated ripe fruit supported by rounded yet well-defined tannins. The clay-rich terroir is reflected in the wine’s substantial texture, while the use of whole bunches contributes freshness and energy. The finish is long, spicy and persistent.
Food pairings
Ideal with structured meat dishes such as roast duck, pigeon, beef fillet, braised meats, roasts and game. It also pairs beautifully with mushrooms, truffles, rabbit dishes and mature cheeses. Its depth and tannic structure make it particularly well suited to autumn and winter cuisine, while its structure gives it excellent potential for extended cellar ageing.
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