2007 Batard-Montrachet
By Domaine Leflaive
2005 Nuits St Georges les Cras from Domaine du Comte Liger-Belair, Burgundy, France
With each vintage, Domaine du Comte Liger-Belair reaffirms its reputation for producing wines of remarkable finesse—nowhere is this more evident than in the 2005 Nuits St Georges les Cras. As the years progress, I find the 2005 vintage retains a certain enigmatic allure that distinguishes it from its counterparts in both preceding and subsequent years.
A Study in Elegance and Complexity
Even after more than a decade and a half, the 2005 Nuits St Georges les Cras astounds with its vitality. The summer of 2005 was marked by an idyllic confluence of warm days and cool nights across Burgundy, affording the grapes an optimal ripening period. Indeed, one can sense the climatic generosity, prevailing through the restrained opulence that characterises this vintage's profile.
The sensual layering of red and black cherries, nuanced by whispers of earthy truffle and esteemed Vosne spice, is entrancing. Firm yet silk-woven tannins underscore this experience, making it abundantly clear why connoisseurs and investors alike seek out this exquisite concoction from Domaine du Comte Liger-Belair.
An Heirloom Vintage for Astute Collections
The pedigree of Liger-Belair's deft craftsmanship is amplified as each year imparts additional complexity to the 2005 Nuits St Georges les Cras. The balletic interplay of acidity and fruit, veiled by a haunting savouriness, provides an alluring proposition for any discerning investor with an eye for Burgundian rarities.
This wine's investment allure is steeped not only in its sensory perfection but also in its potential longevity. The 2005 vintage carries a beautiful tension, a detail which suggests it will unfold magnificently for those who afford it the requisite cellar-time. Not merely an asset in liquid form but a treasure chest of sensorial delight waiting to be unlocked with time.
In summary, the 2005 Nuits St Georges les Cras from Domaine du Comte Liger-Belair offers profound depth with impeccable sculpting of flavours—a paramount example of what makes Burgundy the beating heart of vinous excellence. Remaining true to its terroir yet distinctly outstanding within its lineage, this vintage represents both a cornerstone for enthusiasts and a judicious acquisition for investors.
Market price (HKD)
HK$78,290.00
12x75cl
Highest score
93
POP score
630
Scores and tasting notes
Pineapple, mandarin; hibiscus and orange blossom mark the nose of the Leflaive 2007 Batard-Montrachet. Honey, bittersweet citrus oil, marmalade, apricot preserves, and liquid floral perfume create a sense of seductive ripeness matched by textural opulence. But this lacks the nuance, lift, or intriguing mineral dimension of the Bienvenues-Batard or the Pucelles. A pungent smokiness clings to its bittersweet finish. I imagine this being slightly less age-worthy than the two aforementioned crus, but only time will tell. Departing from the script of most vignerons I visited, Leflaive cellar master Eric Remy (who took over last year from Pierre Morey, with whom he has worked for several years) claimed his 2007 fruit – which he began picking September 1 – harbored a 2:1 ratio of tartaric to malic acidity (whereas, he adds, it was close to reversed in 2006). While some crop was lost to hail – particularly in Chevalier-Montrachet – Remy did not think this affected quality, and he had the same attitude toward mildew (combated here with biodynamic methods), which he said did not compromise the fruit. Alcohol levels largely hover below 14%, that is to say lower – regardless of cru – than any of the 2006s. Importer: Wilson-Daniels, St. Helena, CA; tel. (707) 963-9661
David Schildknecht - The Wine Advocate, 21 December 2009