1993 Hubert Lignier, Clos de la Roche Grand Cru

The 1993 Clos de la Roche is one of the wines in this tasting that speaks to balance above all else. Silky, nuanced and understated, the 1993 is an absolutely joy to taste today, as all the elements fall into place effortlessly. Nothing in particular stands out and yet the wine is a pure joy to taste. The 1993 is a decidedly lithe, feminine Clos de la Roche, but it has a bit more depth than other similarly styled vintages, the 2000 in particular. Silky tannins, chalky, saline notes and a touch of sous bois frame the persistent finish.

The 1993 Clos de la Roche Grand Cru has a loose-knit nose with ample red fruit, leather, earth and fern, though it does not quite deliver the Pinoté of Lignier's finest vintages. The palate is very well balanced with crushed strawberry and raspberry, fine acidity and conveying a touch of the austerity that the 1993s can sometimes project. Yet, it is very long and there is a touch more flesh on the finish. Excellent.