Domaine Meo Camuzet   Richebourg

1997 Richebourg

By Domaine Meo-Camuzet

1997 Richebourg from Domaine Meo-Camuzet, Burgundy, France

Those who have had the privilege to savour the 1997 Richebourg from Domaine Meo-Camuzet will attest to its exceptional place in the pantheon of fine wines. As a critic, I have chronicled its evolution meticulously; let us explore what makes this vintage such a distinctive entry in the great tapestry of Burgundy.

 

A Vintage Defined by Reflexivity and Balance

The late 1990s were an intriguing period for Burgundy lovers, with variations that tested the mettle of vignerons across the region. Yet Domaine Meo-Camuzet demonstrated both intuition and prowess with its 1997 Richebourg. This vintage was marked by its reflective nature, delicately poised between the energy of youth and the gravitas of maturity.

In this year's offering, one finds a symphony of layered complexities – an affirmation of the producer's finely-tuned approach to viticulture and enology. The 1997 harvest encapsulated a climatic paradox; it was a season where intricacy emerged unscathed from unpredictability.

 

The Nuances That Bespeak Investment Potential

On the palate, this 1997 Richebourg announces itself with aplomb – ripened red and black cherries commingle with earthy undertones. Tannins, once resolute, have softened into a supple embrace that seduces rather than overwhelms. On an investment front, connoisseurs and investors alike prize this vintage for its capacity to endure – maturing gracefully while maintaining an invigorating vibrance.

The fragrance remains introspective; notes of violet and truffle entwine, beckoning a sensory delve into a wine that exudes confidence without arrogance. It's in this interplay of aromatic depth and flavourful brightness that this wine stakes its claim as one of the more multifaceted entries into the Richebourg chronicles.

 

Conclusion: A Celebrated Vintage for Discerning Palates

If I were to advise the astute investor or collector, I'd pronounce the 1997 Richebourg from Domaine Meo-Camuzet a wine with remarkable potential; not solely for further maturation but as an emblem of a garden that bloomed amidst climatic challenge. Its eloquent evolution over time merits it a prestigious spot in any serious portfolio or cellar.

Market price (HKD)

HK$289,060.00

12x75cl

Highest score

92

POP score

2520

Scores and tasting notes

91-93

The ruby/purple-colored 1997 Richebourg has enthralling aromas of perfume, flowers, cherries, and blueberries. On the palate, it bursts with scrumptious layers of cherries, blackberries, and oak spices. A medium-bodied wine of outstanding breadth, detail, and refinement, it delivers enormous intellectual gratification. Projected maturity: now-2007+. Importers: Western US: Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant, Berkeley, CA; tel (510) 524-1524; Eastern US: Domaines et Saveurs Collection, Jeanne-Marie de Champs, French Fax: 011-33-3-80-22-58-25.

Pierre Rovani - The Wine Advocate, 29 October 1999

Vintage performance