2010 Clos de la Roche

Lignier’s 2010 Clos de la Roche (magnum) is superb. There is a real density and power to the 2010 that distinguishes it in this tasting. Broad, ample and deep in all of its dimensions, the 2010 is truly exceptional. Readers will have to be patient. The tannins are imposing, that much is obvious, and yet somehow there is enough fruit to provide balance. In this tasting, the 2010 is a real highlight.

The 2010 Clos de la Roche boasts a deep exotic bouquet and tons of fruit, all supported by intense tannins and a broad-shouldered frame. Layers of insistent minerality support the long, saline finish. Simply put, all of the elements are in the right place. The only thing this needs is time, and likely lots of it. The Clos de la Roche is made from two parcels.

The 2010 Clos de la Roche boasts a deep exotic bouquet and tons of fruit, all supported by intense tannins and a broad-shouldered frame. Layers of insistent minerality support the long, saline finish. Simply put, all of the elements are in the right place. The only thing this needs is time, and likely lots of it. The Clos de la Roche is made from two parcels. Anticipated maturity: 2025-2045. Laurent Lignier began harvesting on September 30 and finished on October 5. Yields were down approximately 30-35% across the board because of the cold summer. Lignier reported that the fruit required minimal sorting but the bunches were very small. The 2010s had not been racked at the time of my tastings. Lignier planned to bottle in the spring of 2012 with no fining or filtration. Importer: Rosenthal Wine Merchant, Pine Plains, NY; tel. (800) 910-1990