2019 Hubert Lignier, Clos de la Roche Grand Cru 1x750ml

Vinous 97/100

The 2019 Clos de la Roche Grand Cru has a more earthy/forest floor-scented bouquet, with hints of freshly-rolled tobacco, espresso and morels. I wonder if there is just a touch of reduction here? Concentrated and velvety in texture, the palate is medium-bodied with sappy black fruit and a touch of glycerin toward the finish. More primal than its peers, this will need considerable bottle-aging before it chooses to reveal its personality. This is a serious Grand Cru nascent and in some ways unformed, but all the parts are here. Just add patience. Tasted blind at the Burgfest tasting. [Neal Martin, 12/12/2023]

Anticipated maturity: 2028-2050

Robert Parker 96

The 2019 Clos de la Roche Grand Cru is very promising, wafting from the glass with notes of blackcurrants, cherries and wild berries mingled with notions of loamy soil, orange rind, warm spices and new oak. Full-bodied, layered and multidimensional, it’s lively and concentrated, with ultra-refined tannins and terrific depth at the core, concluding with a long, saline finish. [William Kelley, 16/12/2020]