2014 Richebourg
By Domaine de la Romanee-Conti
2014 Richebourg from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti, Burgundy, France
The exalted vineyards of Burgundy have long been the canvas upon which Domaine de la Romanee-Conti paints masterpieces. The 2014 Richebourg is a quintessential testament to this legacy, where an alchemy of meticulous viticulture and terroir-transcendence materialises in the glass.
A Unique Expression in a Challenging Vintage
The year 2014 was not without its tribulations for Burgundian vignerons. Yet, through adversity springs distinction, and the 2014 Richebourg is an exemplar of Domaine de la Romanee-Conti's deft craftsmanship amidst climatic trials. Here we have a wine that epitomises resilience; embodying a finesse coaxed from the vagaries of nature - a whisper of vanilla from seasoned French oak barrels, a complex tapestry of red berries and cherries laced with the slightest hint of clove and nutmeg.
Investing in Liquid History
For investors with an eye for vinous treasures, the opportunity presented by the 2014 Richebourg from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti transcends mere acquisition. To hold this vintage is to clutch a fragment of history, particularly given the less-than-bounteous yield heralded by the year's capricious climate. The poised tannin structure and remarkable depth suggest a longevity which will no doubt add lustre to any connoisseur's portfolio.
In summing up this remarkable Burgundy offering, one must acknowledge the adept interplay between human touch and nature's serendipity encapsulated in the 2014 Richebourg. It stands not merely as a reflection but as an embodiment of its storied origin – a harmonious narrative told through a lens of red fruit elegance and spicy undertones. Despite the vintage’s challenges, or perhaps because of them, here lies an enigmatic chronicle that promises to evolve splendidly for those who have the foresight to invest.
Market price (GBP)
£38,360.00
12x75cl
Highest score
96
POP score
2397.5
Scores and tasting notes
The 2014 Richebourg Grand Cru was picked on 20 and 21 September at 29.75 hectoliters per hectare. This has a gorgeous, flamboyant, vivacious bouquet with blossoming red cherries, crushed strawberry, less undergrowth scents compared to the showing in barrel, replaced by pressed rose petal notes. There is wonderful delineation and exuberance here. The palate is medium-bodied with a lively, spicy, white pepper-tinged entry, just a faint hint of black truffle tincturing the dark berry fruit. There is superb backbone and density here, a Richebourg delivering on its promise from barrel, plus it comes armed with an extraordinarily long aftertaste that evokes marine-like images, something wild and estuarine. While not as flattering as the Romanée-Saint-Vivant at the moment, just wait ten years. 1,160 cases produced. Tasted February 2017.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 28 February 2017