For the first time in 2017, Laurent Lignier produced a separate cuvée of Clos de la Roche in honor of his grandfather Henri. The Clos de la Roche “MCMLV” comes entirely from Henri’s first planting in 1955: 27 rows of Pinot Noir in the Monts Luisants climat, which he used to propagate the rest of his holdings during the 1960s. This original parcel is highly susceptible to millerandage, which results in small berries of immense concentration, and Laurent harnessed the full power and intensity of such fruit in this stupendous bottling—of which he produced a mere two barrels. A wine such as this embodies Burgundy’s most profound essence: the continuous spirit and presence of a family whose members’ very hands have worked these same vines, this same parcel, since the vines were planted. How could Henri Lignier, when he was breaking earth in 1955, have ever imagined the course his home region would take over the ensuing decades, or the global acclaim that would be heaped on his son’s and his grandsons’ wines? Yet, despite the incredible changes those ensuing 65 years have witnessed, a Lignier has steadfastly worked each vine among these 27 rows of Clos de la Roche, vintage after vintage, gradually building its reputation as one of red Burgundy’s pinnacles. “MCMLV” is not just a great wine, then; it is an emblem of all that makes Burgundy special.
96-98 Pts Jasper Morris: "3 barrels from a mini-plot planted with first class selection massal pinot in 1955. One new barrel in three, with a long slow toasting. Glowing ruby purple. Much less bouquet at first than the regular Clos de la Roche. On the palate this is that much richer, still rather backward, a little bit monolithic, but then the fruit expands beautifully behind. A special wine, if a little less classic Clos de la Roche..” 96-98 points - Jasper Morris
94-96 Pts William Kelley, Wine Advocate: Deeper and more complete, the 2022 Clos de la Roche Grand Cru Cuvée MCMLV delivers aromas of sweet berries and cherries mingled with rose petal, peonies, vine smoke, loamy soil and grilled meats. Full-bodied, layered and concentrated, with a rich core of fruit, sweet tannins and lively acids, it concludes with a long, mineral and slightly carnal finish.”
