Domaine de la Romanee Conti   Echezeaux

2011 Echezeaux

By Domaine de la Romanee-Conti

2011 Echezeaux from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti, Burgundy, France

In the illustrious landscape of Burgundy, the 2011 Echezeaux from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti emanates with a narrative uniquely its own. This vintage, crafted from the hallowed rows of Echezeaux's grand cru vines, heralds a year that challenged even the most seasoned vignerons. Yet, in this tension between nature and nurture lies the epoch of winemaking prowess.

 

A Tempestuous Vintage with Triumph

The 2011 growing season in Burgundy played out like a theatrical act—unpredictable spring frosts, a somewhat unremarkable summer, punctuated by an early harvest. These climatic caprices had winemakers on tenterhooks, yet what birthed from the crucible of such a year was a wine of unexpected grace and complexity. It is my pleasure to attest that the 2011 Echezeaux not only rose to meet the challenge but did so with an enchanting poise.

 

The Distinctive Expression of Echezeaux

While many 2011 red Burgundies exhibit lighter frames and somewhat ephemeral qualities, this vintage has navigated the spectrum gracefully. One is first greeted by a bouquet where bewitching florals intermingle with earthy undertones—a prelude to a palate where dark fruit notes performed their symphony upon especially subtle tannins. A touch of spice deftly accompanies the wine's elegant structure, foregrounding Echezeaux's capacity for depth even in lighter years.

Investors might note that despite—or perhaps owing to—the challenges of the season, this vintage has manifested as one that betrays Domaine de la Romanee-Conti's continued dedication to excellence under duress. The 2011 Echezeaux showcases a resilient versatility that shall no doubt contribute to its maturation narrative in future tastings.

 

An Epitome of Mastery Over Circumstance

When considering the investment potential of this particular bottle, one should observe not solely its standalone splendour but also the eloquent statement it makes about its genesis—a testimony to both vintage and virtuosity. The 2011 Echezeaux, nested in your portfolio, would not only pronounce a diversification strategy but also celebrate Burgundy's resilience through climatic trials. This wine stands as an emblem of an extremely collectable year; one which flirts with scarcity, ensuring its desirability remains ever ascendant amongst aficionados and investors alike.

Market price (GBP)

£30,240.00

12x75cl

Highest score

90

POP score

3024

Scores and tasting notes

90

Picked on 10 and 11 September at 22.04hl/ha, the Echezeaux Grand Cru has a delicate, quite feminine bouquet with scents of fresh strawberry, undergrowth and just a hint of dry tobacco. It opens nicely with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with a slightly brusque entry. The tannins are quite pointed here, creating a more angular Echezeaux compared to the 2011, whilst it needs to develop just a little more flesh and weight towards the back end that feels a little brittle and attenuated at the moment. Still, there is a fine saline, almost nori seaweed tang on the aftertaste – a nice twist in the tail. 1,030 cases produced. Drink now-2027

Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 26 February 2014

Vintage performance