Domaine du Comte Liger Belair   Vosne Romanee Clos du Chateau

2003 Vosne Romanee Clos du Chateau

By Domaine du Comte Liger-Belair

2003 Vosne Romanee Clos du Chateau from Domaine du Comte Liger-Belair, Burgundy, France

Amidst the echelons of Burgundian legend, the 2003 Vosne Romanee Clos du Chateau from Domaine du Comte Liger-Belair stands as a testament to the resilience and unexpected poise that "hot-year" vintages can exude when expertly harnessed. The scorching summer of 2003 is etched in the annals of winemaking lore for presenting a formidable challenge to viticulturists and winemakers alike.

 

Tempering Fire: A Vintage's Triumph Over Adversity

The year's extreme conditions necessitated precision in vineyard management, and wines from diligent producers like Domaine du Comte Liger-Belair took on an extraordinary dimension of depth and concentration. This emphasis on terroir sensitivity rings true with the 2003 Vosne Romanee Clos du Chateau, showcasing how deft winemaking can express purity even in the face of climatic intensity.

Characteristic of its celebrated origins, the wine exhibits a rich tapestry of dark berries intertwined with the subtleties of exotic spices and earthy undertones – a homage to the ancient soils that nurture these esteemed vines. Yet, it's the structure that astonishes: robust with a supple backbone; tannins that carry aged grace – refusing to be overshadowed by the vintage's warmth.

 

Cultivating Rarity: An Investment-worthy Vintage

In investment terms, rarity cohorts with quality; and 2003 Clos du Chateau, due to its singular climatic conditions, holds a special allure. A matured 2003 bottle from Domaine du Comte Liger-Belair is a collector's treasure – promising not just a hedonistic tasting experience but also the satisfaction of owning a slice of Burgundian history's unconventional chapter.

The finesse demonstrated here echoes in investor circles where distinctiveness is prized. This wine not only epitomizes the triumphs possible in challenging years but also acts as an enduring reminder of Domaine du Comte Liger-Belair's winemaking prowess.

In closing, when one seeks out jewels for one’s portfolio or cellar, let us not overlook those born from adversity. The 2003 Vosne Romanee Clos du Chateau is such a gem – poised with elegance amid fiery conditions – and promises rewarding complexity to explorative palates and prudent investors alike.

Current market price

£15,890.00

12x75cl

Highest score

85

POP score

3178

Scores and tasting notes

85

Tasted at the Comte Liger-Belair vertical at the Château de Vosne. The 2003 Vosne-Romanée Clos du Château has a rather anonymous bouquet after the 2002, denuded of fruit both by the growing season and bottle age. The palate is sweet and candied on the entry. This is marked by low acidity, soft and "fluffy" with a soy-tinged finish that is beginning to show some dryness. It is not a terrible 2003 by a long shot, though it is not a patch on the previous vintage. Tasted June 2015.

Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 30 July 2015

Vintage performance