2013 Richebourg
By Domaine de la Romanee-Conti
2013 Richebourg from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti, Burgundy
The venerable 2013 Richebourg from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti emerges as a paragon of crafted precision and layered complexity. One must take time to appreciate the particular nuances that define this exceptional Burgundian vintage. The year 2013, at once challenging and rewarding for vintners, has imparted on this prestigious wine a unique distinction from its forebears.
An Insight into the Vintage
The growing season of 2013 in Burgundy was a vigneron's odyssey; a year that placed restraint against nature's whims. It began with a deleteriously cold spring, leading to late flowering followed by a summer hesitant to reveal its full glory. The conditions called for astute vineyard management and precise timing of harvest, attributes at which Domaine de la Romanee-Conti excels. The resulting grape selection for the Richebourg is one of concentrated vigour and grace, sculpted by purveyor hands into a wine of absolute finesse.
Investment Merits of the 2013 Richebourg
In the realm of fine wine investment, the allure of the 2013 Richebourg is undeniable. Its provenance speaks volumes - Domaine de la Romanee-Conti's unwavering commitment to excellence in spite of climatic adversity. This Richebourg boasts firm tannins and an elegant structure wrapped in a symphony of earthy undertones, dark cherries and exotic spices. The palate encounters an enigmatic dance between power and poise; an intellectual offering that commands attention with every sip.
As time progresses, this vintage will undoubtedly unfurl further layers, promising an unfolding narrative that wise investors would be sagacious to be part of. With such intricate construction, the 2013 Richebourg secures its position as one of the most captivating expressions from this world-renowned estate.
Concluding Commendations
In conclusion, the distinct challenges and resultant triumphs of the vintage have endowed the 2013 Richebourg from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti with rare qualities worthy of avid pursuit by collectors and aficionados. As it stands, it represents an opulent chapter in the domain's narrative - one where detail-oriented craftsmanship has given rise to an evocative wine that remains indelibly imprinted with the story of its birth year.
Market price (USD)
$52,560.00
12x75cl
Highest score
96
POP score
2690.63
Scores and tasting notes
The 2013 Richebourg Grand Cru was harvested on the afternoon of October 9 and then the following day at just 16.5 hectoliters per hectare, the second lowest after the Echézeaux. It is clearly the elder brother of the 2013 Romanée-Saint-Vivant with intense dark cherry, black plum, tayberry and crushed violet aromas (the latter, perhaps a nod to the Romanée-Saint-Vivant). As with all the domaine's wines this year, it is beautifully defined with beguiling transparency. The palate is medium-bodied, but there is serious weight and presence here. It is struck through with sorbet-like freshness, hints of blood orange tincturing the vibrant red fruit, seguing into a finish with great conviction and confidence, a Richebourg self-aware though not preening about its status. This is a Richebourg to cellar for several years and to enjoy over the next 20 to 25 years (or more). Production is 551 cases. Tasted February 2016.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 3 March 2016