Domaine Georges Lignier et Fils

BOURGOGNE ALIGOTÉ, france |  2022

We love promoting the underdog at Le Midi: whether it be a region, a new winery, or just paying attention to lesser-known varietals.  Aligoté stands out as the underdog white-grape of Burgundy against its more popular sibling Chardonnay, but over the last couple of decades it has been taken more seriously. The wines are also usually less exorbitantly expensive than what Burgundy normally commands, and the focus on quality from multiple esteemed domaines, like Domaine Georges Lignier, have started putting this otherwise forgotten varietal onto the map of world-class wines.

The Aligoté from Domaine Georges Lignier exemplifies the traditional yet distinctive winemaking approach that sets this estate apart. This fresh, textbook Aligoté is sourced from vines in Morey-St-Denis with 70% coming from a venerable 60-year-old planting in the lieu-dit Les Aires, and the remaining 30% from four nearby tiny plots. The wine is vinified and aged in stainless steel on its fine lees for just shy of a year, which enhances its clean, bright acidity while also imparting a satisfying roundness typical of old vines. Floral elements add a delicate complexity, making this Aligoté a quintessential example of its kind.

The famed estate's direction under Benoit Stehly, nephew of Georges Lignier and 6th generation winemaker on the estate, underscores a commitment to traditional methods and aromatic concentration. Stehly, who assumed control in 2008 after a decade of working alongside his uncle, employs techniques like a slightly later harvest and 80% destemming to enhance the wines’ aromatic profiles. This focus on aroma over structural or color concentration results in wines that are delicate, subtle, and seductive—a fascinating contrast to the more intense and structured offerings from the wines of Georges Lignier’s cousin, Hubert Lignier.

Pair this rare gem with cheeses like a funky camembert or triple-cream brie, or just some good ole fashioned fried chicken.