2023 Domaine Antoine Lienhardt Cote De Nuits Villages Rouge “Les Essards” (case of 6)

 6x750ML 

Essards is a single parcel within Comblanchien, with rocky soils and vines averaging 55-65 years old. Harvest is determined by consistent tasting in the vineyards for optimum ripeness. Grapes are 100% destemmed with closed tank fermentation and then aged for 12 months in oak barrels, 10% of which are new. A lovely and pure Pinot Noir, with fresh acid and fine tannins. Bright red fruit on the nose and palate, a wine that could age, but is so delicious now that it may be hard to cellar. The finish reveals structure and mineral length that provide the potential for aging, so it's your choice to go for the charm and immediate joy of Les Essards or to see how elegant and refined it becomes with age. 

Antoine Lienhardt is one of the most exciting growers in Burgundy today. He makes tiny quantities of deliciously high-toned, lifted, profoundly soulful wines that speak confidently of their terroir.

The brightness and verve of Antoine’s wines are paving a path for the future of Burgundy. At the nexus of natural winemaking and legendary terroir, it’s no wonder he’s gained an almost-rabid following by those in the know. 

Through his focus in the vineyard, Antoine brings to life his belief that the under-celebrated terroir of his home village (the southernmost in the Côte de Nuits) ranks with the nearby Grand Crus. We are inclined to agree.

Antoine’s delicate approach delivers red wines with ripe, resonant, pure Pinot fruit balanced by electric acidity, weightless drive, and cooling mineral verve.