Tasting Notes
Vinous 97
The 1999 Richebourg Grand Cru from Domaine de la Romanée-Conti is bestowed with startling delineation on the nose, displaying chiseled aromas of dark berry fruit, briar, crushed stone and just a touch of rose petal. Like the greatest wines from this hallowed vineyard, it possesses a palpable sense of majesty and aristocracy, the crescendo of aromas rooting you to the spot and making you almost kowtow in deference. The palate has immense backbone and structure; think of the Forth Bridge, if you will. And underneath the blackberry and wild strawberry fruit lie fathomless notes of cold slate and damp autumnal woodland. The energy coiled inside this Richebourg is wonderful. In lesser hands, such a leviathan could be oppressive, but instead, you are overcome with joy and revelry. Stunning. Tasted at the DRC/Leroy comparative dinner in Hong Kong.
Anticipated maturity: 2025-2060
Robert Parker 97
Oh yes. Oh yes, yes, yes. This 1999 Richebourg Grand Cru is a bit like a great athlete, one who really shows its class against stiff opposition, here in the form of 18 other Richebourg! It follows the same thread as the imperial 1999 La Tâche. It has been blessed with a sensational nose that boasts quite astonishing delineation and precision, fabulous mineralité. The aromatics are far more detailed and enthralling than the 2007 tasted alongside. The palate is beautifully structured, virtually symmetrical with filigree tannin, with a gentle crescendo in the mouth towards an effervescent finish with hints of orange peel. Simply effortless.
Anticipated maturity: 2015-2040
