Domaine de la Romanee Conti   Richebourg

1995 Richebourg

By Domaine de la Romanee-Conti

1995 Richebourg from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti, Burgundy, France

In the pantheon of viticultural excellence, few names resonate as profoundly as Domaine de la Romanee-Conti. The 1995 Richebourg from this hallowed estate embodies the zenith of terroir expression, ensuring its distinguished position within a collector’s portfolio. Bridging the gap between the esotericism of Burgundian nuance and the tangible thrill of investment-grade wine, this vintage presents an opportunity for connoisseurs and investors alike.

 

The Quintessence of a Pivotal Year

The 1995 vintage in Burgundy was one marked by climatic generosity. A benign growing season segued into an early harvest, with meticulously tended vines yielding fruit imbued with both opulence and structure. The Richebourg plot, sparing in its production but extravagant in quality, presented a vintage that radiates the quintessential nobility one expects from such a storied vineyard.

Taking its time to unfurl in the glass, the 1995 Richebourg reveals layers of dark berry fruits interlaced with seductive truffle and an exquisitely tailored frame of new French oak. The tannins remain assertive yet impeccably integrated, suggesting potential for further maturation. On the palate, a tapestry of complexity is woven from threads of cassis, rose petal, and a hint of gaminess characteristic of mature Pinot Noir from Burgundy.

 

An Asset in Both Cellar and Portfolio

The vestiges of discernible acidity advocate for a wine that not only persists but evolves captivatingly within the bottle. Its texture realized fully with age – expresses Burgundian terroir with articulate grace. This enviable balance positions the 1995 Richebourg as a particularly investable asset, favoured in markets where rarity begets demand.

In summing up this exceptional offering from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti, one must acknowledge both the enchantment it furnishes in oenological terms and its prestigious benevolence as an asset. The 1995 Richebourg stands as a testament to a favourable year when climate and craft serendipitously converged – creating liquid alchemy poised to enhance any sophisticated portfolio.

Current market price

£45,990.00

12x75cl

Highest score

90

POP score

4599

Scores and tasting notes

90

The 1995 Richebourg Grand Cru is a wine that I have not tasted for a few years, but it did not enthrall like the 1999 or have the easy-going charm of the 2007 Richebourg. There is some maturity showing on the brick-ish rim. The nose is forward and earthy with sage, dried orange peel and a touch of mint, though it feels a little more diffuse that I was expecting. The palate is balanced and quite savory, perhaps more than I was expecting. It is an enjoyable Richebourg, but it does not have the stamp of authority. I suspect there are better bottles than this, ergo my plus-sign next to a somewhat parsimonious score.

Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 29 November 2015

Vintage performance