The 1996 Hubert Lignier Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru 'Aux Combottes' is a superb example from a vintage that, despite some challenges, produced wines with good concentration and classic varietal aromas. Hubert Lignier is known for crafting wines where the terroir is the dominant characteristic, using a modest amount of new oak to preserve this focus. This particular wine has been described as having a bright, medium-to-dark ruby color. On the nose, it offers profound aromas of jammy black cherries immersed in a spicy veal demi-glace, with notes of Asian spices, perfume, and toasted oak. The palate is said to explode with copious ripe red and black fruit. It is oily-textured, full-bodied, muscular, chewy, yet highly-defined and sublimely elegant, with a prodigiously long finish revealing firm tannins. Other notes mention black fruit, plum, anise, orange, dried rose, cherry, strawberry, and earthy notes like leather. 【Oily-textured, full-bodied, muscular, yet sublimely elegant】. While anticipated maturity was initially 2004-2010, some reviews in 2012 noted the first hints of secondary development, suggesting it could still be enjoyed after several hours of air. Food pairing suggestions: This powerful red Burgundy demands equally robust dishes. It pairs wonderfully with roasted game, beef bourguignon, grilled lamb, or rich mushroom dishes. For an East-West pairing, consider Peking duck, Korean BBQ short ribs, or a rich, savory Chinese braised pork belly. Event suggestions: A celebratory dinner, a gathering of serious wine collectors, or a special occasion where a complex and age-worthy red Burgundy would be the star.