1996 Richebourg
By Domaine de la Romanee-Conti
1996 Richebourg from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti, Burgundy, France
The revered 1996 vintage stands as a testament to the confluence of perfect climatic conditions and the hallowed terroirs of Burgundy. It is a year that conscientious collectors and seasoned investors alike still articulate with a tone of reverence, especially when discussing the 1996 Richebourg from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti. My personal encounters with this wine over the years have consistently reaffirmed its position as one of Burgundy's most compelling narratives.
Vintage Virtuosity: A Notable Year for Richebourg
While Richebourg is inherently known for producing wines of power and depth, the 1996 iteration from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti brings forth an embodiment of elegance and precision that transcends expectations. A pilgrimage through its sensorial virtues reveals a complex bouquet: ripe black cherries, vivacious raspberry, and a grounding earthiness spiced with hints of cinnamon and clove. The palate, an interplay of robust structure and intricate layers, offers firm yet remarkably refined tannins speaking to the minerality unique to its terroir.
As with all vintages emerging from this paramount plot, the winemaking philosophy remains unapologetically traditional. However, it is the extraordinary climatic aptitude in 1996, with its extended sun-soaked days tempered by brisk nights, that has sculpted a wine with remarkable aging potential.
An Exemplary Investment Grade Vintage
For investors considering fine wines as a diversification vehicle, the 1996 Richebourg procures a quintessential option. Its performance in both the glass and the market stands as a linchpin for robust portfolios. Not only does this exquisite Burgundy continue to evolve with grace in bottle, but it also appreciates in stature within the secondary market.
In closing, this formidable expression by Domaine de la Romanee-Conti remains an unparalleled emblem of Burgundy's prolific 1996 vintage. The legacy of this wine – spanning now over a quarter-century – seems to rise with each passing year like its own storied vines through Burgundy’s esteemed soil.
Market price (GBP)
£25,200.00
12x75cl
Highest score
94
POP score
1800
Scores and tasting notes
As is often the case with this youthful wine, the nose was extremely reticent. After considerable coaxing, I had a peek at this offering's deeply ripe dark fruit aromatics. But what a flavor profile! A massive explosion of profound and intense cherries, raspberries, boysenberries, and strawberries coated my palate. It is a medium-to-full-bodied, densely-fruited, and powerful wine that is perfectly balanced and delineated. Projected maturity: 2005-2018. Importer: Wilson-Daniels, St. Helena, CA; tel. (707) 963-9661.
Pierre Rovani - The Wine Advocate, 30 August 1998