Among the most airy expressions from the Burgundy hills, the Hautes-Côtes de Nuits « La Corvée de Villy » 2023 from Domaine Thibault Liger-Belair is a delicate, precise and vibrant red. Born from a very stony terroir where lava rock and primary limestone intertwine, borne by orange-red, iron-rich clays, it gives off a luminous energy. Farmed organically, the vineyard delivers pure fruit whose mineral thread marks the identity of the site. This cuvée is aimed at lovers of balance and nuance, those seeking a Pinot with a silky, digestible texture that can elevate seasonal cooking as well as everyday moments. The aromatic profile, subtly floral and gently earthy, pairs with an elegant, mouthwatering palate that extends the pleasure without ever weighing it down. Here, the grace of the hand meets the truth of the soil for a finely crafted tasting experience.

Blend and winemaking

The character of “La Corvée de Villy” is built on precise ripeness and restrained extraction. The grapes are hand-picked and fully destemmed to favor fruit brightness and tactile precision. Fermentation, carried out over about three weeks, follows a gentle infusion approach that preserves Pinot's delicacy while revealing the depth of the limestone soils and the saline dynamic provided by the iron in the clays. The ageing of 18 months, including 30% new barrels, adds body, polishes the tannins and supports the aromatic resonance without masking the purity of the juice. The result, very clear in expression, combines crystalline red fruit, a floral lift and vibrant minerality, with a straight mid-palate and a clean finish.

Tasting notes

• Appearance: Bright ruby with carmine highlights, sparkling transparency and fine legs, promising an elegant texture.
• Nose: Peony and violet open the scene, joined by redcurrant, raspberry and wild strawberry. A hint of infusion, herbal tea and light tea, then an echo of fresh earth and wet stone rises.
• Palate: Sculpted, juicy attack, tapered mid-palate, silky tannins. The limestone backbone brings a thirst-quenching salinity; the finish stretches on crunchy red fruit, fine graphite and a touch of dried herbs.

Serving temperature and tips

Serve between 15 and 16°C in a Burgundy-style wine glass to promote the unfolding of floral nuances and mineral precision. A light decant of 20 to 30 minutes before service further refines the bouquet and reveals the wine’s texture. At the table, favour precise cooking, restrained seasoning and preparations that respect the fruit. Store bottles quietly, out of light, to preserve the finesse of the terroir and the purity achieved by patient ageing.

Food pairings

• Aperitifs: gougères, jambon persillé, fine poultry rillettes.
• Starters: veal tartare with herbs, country terrine, grilled vegetables with thyme.
• Main courses: roast chicken with sautéed potatoes and fresh peas, just-rosé veal chop, bistro dishes with reduced jus.
• Cheeses: Brie de Meaux, Brillat-Savarin, young Comté that highlights the minerality.
• Vegetables & veg: mushroom risotto, sautéed asparagus, roasted beets with fine herbs.

Occasions

The Hautes-Côtes de Nuits « La Corvée de Villy » 2023 suits:

• A Sunday lunch where golden poultry brings the family together in a spirit of conviviality.
• A seasonal dinner that showcases delicate textures and reduced sauces.
• A thoughtful gift for a lover of Burgundy and expressive terroirs.

Product details

• Name: Domaine Thibault Liger-Belair, Hautes-Côtes de Nuits « La Corvée de Villy » 2023
• Appellation: Hautes-Côtes de Nuits AOP
• Type: Red wine
• Vintage: 2023
• Grape variety: Pinot Noir
• Alcohol level: according to vintage
• Ageing: 18 months, including 30% new barrels
• Volume: 75 cl
• Cellaring: best enjoyed in its youth, modest ageing potential
• Serving temperature: 15 to 16°C