Domaine Leflaive   Batard Montrachet

2004 Batard-Montrachet

By Domaine Leflaive

2002 Nuits St Georges les Cras from Domaine du Comte Liger-Belair, Burgundy

A vintage that softly whispers its stories of climatic contrast, the 2002 Nuits St Georges les Cras from Domaine du Comte Liger-Belair is Burgundy personified. As one delves into this wine's essence, it becomes exceedingly clear that this is not merely another elegant foray into the hallowed halls of fine French winemaking; it is, instead, a distinct chapter in the tome of viticultural mastery.

 

An Epochal Vintage

While Burgundy has been renowned for its consistent ability to deliver wines of exemplary finesse and structure, it is the tapestry woven by the idiosyncrasies of each year that truly beguiles. The promise of 2002 lay in its optimal growing conditions.Favoured by a warm summer and an amenable autumn in the Côte de Nuits region, these climatic blessings bestowed a harvest both bountiful and healthy, begeting wines of exceptional balance.

 

Investment Potential: A Star Emerges

Yet what truly sets the 2002 vintage apart within Domaine du Comte Liger-Belair's illustrious catalogue is the precision with which the les Cras terroir articulates itself. With over two decades of maturation, this flag bearer reveals a palate layered with ripe cherries, enlivened by an evolving undercurrent of earthy minerality. A round yet statuesque body carries notes of subtly integrated oak - a testament to artisanal ageing.

Their investment allure lies not only in their scarcity but in their revered development potential. This vintage stands as a beacon for collectors and investors alike - a defining sip on the journey through Burgundy's storied lineage.

Closer examination yields evidence of wise financial foresight; aligning one's portfolio with the 2002 Nuits St Georges les Cras from Domaine du Comte Liger-Belair announces a discerning eye. It possesses inherent substance ready to unfurl over time - much like the waxing narrative of this extraordinary domaine.

 

In Summary: The Nuanced Heritage

Embarking on an exquisite voyage with each covetable pour, the 2002 vintage showcases both the enduring legacy of pedigree and enological acumen. Against an evolving market canvas, it maintains its composure as an intriguing proposition for vinous investment – with its roots firmly planted in the mineral-rich soils of Burgundy's Nuits St Georges.

Current market price

$15,140.00

12x75cl

Highest score

89

POP score

1007.78

Scores and tasting notes

89

The 2004 Batard-Montrachet Grand Cru from Anne-Claude is creamy, generous and lightly honeyed, but in my opinion is in want of more terroir expression and delineation. It actually seems quite advanced for its age and status. The palate is powerful and quite viscous in the mouth with vanilla and honey notes, but again, it does not really express what Batard is all about. For sure, a pleasurable wine, but it is missing intellectual rigor. Drink now-2017.

Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 28 August 2013

Vintage performance