Wines of France / Jura / Arbois
Domaine Ligier - Jura
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Located in the picturesque hills just north of Revermont in the heart of the Jura, Domaine Ligier currently farms ten hectares, eight of which are in the prized Arbois AOP in the communes of Arbois and Villette les Arbois. All of the vineyards sit on hillsides, with soils that are a combination of different marls, Triassic clay, and calcareous scree. Owner Hervé Ligier and winemaker Mari-Colette Vandelle team to produce an array of great values from the traditional varieties Chardonnay, Savagnin, Pinot Noir, Poulsard, and Trousseau. From vibrant crémants, mineral driven whites, spicy reds, to the local specialty Vin Jaune, their range is a perfect tour of the gastronomic uniqueness the Jura has to offer.
Harvests are always done manually, and a tri-level selection is performed, in an attempt to bring to the winery only the finest grapes their vineyards have to offer. In 2002 the domaine built its own chai where these grapes can be gently vinified and then aged (whether in stainless steel or oak barrels).
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Domaine Ligier Arbois “Cuvée des Poètes”
100% Savagnin from a blue and white marne soil, made in the topped-up style on its lees in foudre, in order to preserve its freshness and minerality. A perfect example of the more modern topped up style in the Jura, and how that style can showcase the varietal and regional character of the grape. Its round, slightly nutty flavors of ripe apple and citrus fruit are given a jolt of electricity by the natural acidity and minerality. 
Domaine Ligier Crémant du Jura Brut Rosé
A blend (as mandated in the appellation) of Trousseau and Pinot Noir, with just enough of a maceration to give it its lovely pale pink color. It is made in the methode champenoise and racked for 12-18 months before being sold. Its appealing nose presents raspberry and gooseberry notes, and on the palate these same fruit flavors are met by a perfectly balanced bubble and acidity. Perfect as an aperitif or even with fruit desserts. 
Domaine Ligier Crémant du Jura Blanc de Blancs Brut
100% Chardonnay. The domaine also makes great value sparkling wines that have become some of the most popular in the book. The Cremant du Jura Brut is made with pure Chardonnay and aged on its lees for two years and sees a 7 g/l dosage. It has bright flavors of citrus fruit, an appealing tonic-like note, and a crisp, dry finish. 
Domaine Ligier Arbois Poulsard
Poulsard has its home in Revermont, where it particularly likes the marl inflected clay soils. It is among the red grapes with the lowest levels of color phenols, and so even with extended time on the skins, its color remains pale and translucent. However, the character found in Poulsard is distinct and intense, and the paleness of the wine belies its flavor and vibrant personality. Ligier’s version shows a woodsy richness alongside a bright cherry note laced with rose hips. The mouth is floral and direct with a surprising intensity. Grown in a rugged region with an unusual wine culture and an extraordinary culinary tradition, this is a wine from a time gone by: idiosyncratic, rare and charming. 
Domaine Ligier Arbois Trousseau
Trousseau isn’t all that different from Red Burgundy — its fruit resembles a rustic Pinot Noir. It thrives on the gravelly marls with good exposure, especially on the hillside parcels, where it develops delicate florals, briar-y red fruits, and hints of citrus while maintaining a medium bodied frame. Given time, earthier notes emerge, like hints of game and pepper, making it quite compelling with food. Subtle and silky, with freshness and a fine tannin, Trousseau is an excellent alternative to its more famous neighbor to the west. |
