2002 Hubert Lignier, Morey-Saint-Denis 1er Cru, La Riotte 1x75cl

Vinous – 89+

Red-ruby. Stony and reticent on the nose. High-pitched and tight; this, too, is quite withdrawn today, even a tad dry in the middle. Best today on the long, bright finish, which features strong tannins but subtle, lingering cherry, berry and mineral flavors. I would expect this to merit a 90-point rating with five or six years of bottle aging. [Stephen Tanzer, 03/01/2005]

Robert Parker – 91-93

The sassafras and black cherry-scented 2002 Morey-St.-Denis La Riotte (from 38 year old vines) was outstanding. It conquers the palate with seamless layers of candied, fleshy black cherries, blackberries, and cassis. A boisterous, sappy wine, its endearing core of fruit harmoniously leads to a long, supple, and flavorful finish. This may be the finest Riotte I’ve encountered to date. Drink it over the next 7 years. [01/06/2004]

Anticipated maturity: 2004-2011

Burghound – 90

Deeply perfumed, notably ripe and expressive red fruit and this is quite fine, indeed almost delicate and the flavors are understated and precise. Though this is a departure from its usual style, there is much to admire here as the flavors and finish are exquisitely beautiful and have picked up weight since the mise yet the impeccable balance should permit this to enjoy 6 to 10 years of improvement. [01/01/2005]