Lignier-Michelot, Domaine
Summary
Domaine Lignier-Michelot is a fourth-generation family estate in Morey-Saint-Denis managing 9 hectares of Pinot Noir vineyards across the Côte de Nuits, including parcels in prestigious Clos de la Roche and Clos Saint-Denis grand crus. Under Virgile Lignier's leadership since the early 2000s, the domaine has transitioned to organic and biodynamic practices with minimal intervention winemaking, employing partial whole-cluster fermentation and judicious oak use.
Heritage & Leadership
The Lignier family has deep roots in Morey-Saint-Denis, where they have cultivated vines since the early 1900s. The domaine entered a new chapter in 2000 when Virgile Lignier assumed leadership from his father Maurice. Under Virgile's direction, the domaine maintains its focus on expressing the distinct terroirs of the Côte de Nuits.
Vineyards & Wines
Domaine Lignier-Michelot's holdings span three key communes of the Côte de Nuits: Morey-Saint-Denis, Chambolle-Musigny, and Gevrey-Chambertin. The domaine produces a focused range of Pinot Noir wines, including premier cru bottlings from Morey-Saint-Denis 'Aux Cheseaux' and 'Façonnières,' alongside village-level wines from Chambolle-Musigny and Morey-Saint-Denis.
Philosophy & Practice
The domaine adheres to traditional Burgundian practices, beginning with hand harvesting and careful grape selection both in the vineyard and cellar. Fermentation proceeds with indigenous yeasts, reflecting their minimal intervention approach. The wines mature in French oak barrels, with the proportion of new oak carefully calibrated to each wine's structure and origin.