Vinous – 87-89 Points
The 2020 Moulin-à-Vent Vieilles Vignes, from several parcels in the north of the appellation, contains 40% whole cluster and was picked from 27 August. It has quite a precocious bouquet with raspberry coulis, blueberry and violet aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with sweet ripe red cherry fruit laced with orange peel, just a touch of spice on the finish. Fine. Nov/2021 —Neal Martin | vinous.com
Description
2020 Thibault Liger-Belair Moulin A Vent Les Vieilles Vignes
The 2020 Thibault Liger-Belair Moulin A Vent Les Vieilles Vignes is a celebrated wine that captures the essence of the Moulin-à-Vent appellation, one of the most prestigious regions in Beaujolais wine country. Crafted by winemaker Thibault Liger-Belair, this vintage is a tribute to his dedication to both tradition and innovation, making it a standout for high-quality Beaujolais wines.
Old Vine Richness
The term Les Vieilles Vignes refers to the old vines, often over 60 years old, that produce low yields but offer grapes with incredible concentration and complexity. These vines bring richness and depth to the 2020 vintage, adding layers of flavor that reflect the exceptional terroir of Moulin-à-Vent.
Exceptional Terroir
The terroir of Moulin-à-Vent is distinguished by its granite-rich soils, which impart a unique mineral character to the wine. The 2020 vintage is a perfect example of this, showcasing the harmonious balance between fruit and mineral-driven complexity. The region is often referred to as producing the most “Burgundian” style wines in Beaujolais, thanks to the structured yet elegant nature of the wines.
Aged to Perfection
With well-integrated tannins and vibrant acidity, the 2020 Thibault Liger-Belair Moulin A Vent Les Vieilles Vignes is a wine that offers both immediate enjoyment and excellent aging potential. The dark fruit flavors, including black cherry and plum, are complemented by hints of spice, violet, and earthy undertones, making it a complex yet approachable wine. While it can be enjoyed now, cellaring for 5-10 years will allow the wine to develop even greater complexity and depth, making it a worthy addition to any collection.
A Culinary Companion
This Thibault Liger-Belair wine pairs exceptionally well with a range of dishes, from roasted meats to game and even earthy mushroom-based dishes. The wine’s balance of fruit, structure, and elegance allows it to enhance the flavors of these foods, making it a versatile and refined choice for any occasion.
Sustainable Winemaking
In addition to its exceptional taste, the 2020 vintage benefits from Thibault Liger-Belair’s commitment to sustainable and biodynamic farming practices. By prioritizing the health of the soil and the vineyard ecosystem, the winemaker ensures that each bottle of Moulin A Vent Les Vieilles Vignes reflects the purity and authenticity of the terroir.
History of Thibault Liger-Belair
Thibault Liger-Belair belongs to a family with deep roots in Burgundy’s winemaking history, dating back to 1720. The Liger-Belair family has long been associated with some of the most prestigious vineyards in Burgundy, with a tradition of producing wines that showcase the terroir of their region. In 2001, after studying viticulture and oenology, Thibault founded Domaine Thibault Liger-Belair, continuing the family’s centuries-old winemaking legacy. He immediately set out to innovate while respecting the deep traditions that had been passed down through generations.
Expanding to Beaujolais
In 2008, Thibault Liger-Belair expanded his winemaking ambitions beyond Burgundy by acquiring vineyards in the Moulin-à-Vent appellation of Beaujolais, one of the most respected areas in the region. His approach blends Burgundian heritage with modern winemaking techniques, emphasizing low yields, biodynamic practices, and meticulous vineyard care to ensure the finest quality fruit is harvested. This expansion allowed Thibault to explore the full potential of Beaujolais terroir, producing wines that exhibit the same finesse and complexity as his Burgundy selections.
Biodynamic Winemaking
Thibault practices sustainable and biodynamic viticulture, ensuring that his wines are a true reflection of the vineyard’s natural environment. His Moulin-à-Vent vineyards, some of which feature vines over 60 years old, produce wines with remarkable depth, structure, and character. This biodynamic approach, which eschews the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, not only preserves the purity of the fruit but also enhances the health of the soil and vineyard ecosystem.
Tradition Meets Innovation
Today, Thibault Liger-Belair is regarded as one of the top winemakers in both Burgundy and Beaujolais. His wines, including the highly sought-after Moulin A Vent Les Vieilles Vignes, exemplify his ability to balance tradition with modern winemaking innovations. With a deep respect for his family’s legacy and a forward-thinking approach, Thibault continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in both Burgundy and Beaujolais, producing wines that are both timeless and dynamic.
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