Domaine de la Romanee Conti   Richebourg

2010 Richebourg

By Domaine de la Romanee-Conti

2010 Richebourg from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti, Burgundy, France

In the variegated tapestry of Burgundy's vintages, the 2010 Richebourg from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti is a standout chapter woven with skill and subtle artistry. An enfant prodige amidst its peers, this vintage offers a riveting tale of resilience and brilliance sparked by Burgundy's climatic whimsy.

 

The Ballet of Nature and Nurture

Burgundy's 2010 narrative was one etched with trials: a year that commenced with uncertainty soon flourished under the watchful eyes of vignerons who coaxed out the profound potential latent in their vines. As autumnal equinox approached, fine wine investors held their breaths, for what transpired in the wineries would be nothing short of alchemy.

Amongst the diligent hands at Domaine de la Romanee-Conti, a legend was sculpted. The Richebourg vineyard, steeped in lore and blessed with complex terroir, bore fruit that was transformed into liquid enigma. The 2010 Richebourg exemplifies this alchemic journey, presenting a palate that bridges ethereal finesse with formidable structure.

 

A Vintage Reverie

When sipping on the 2010 vintage, one is transported to the hallowed grounds of Richebourg itself. The wine unfolds in confidences of spiced cherry and earthy undertones—a fusion of flavours that speaks to both the austerity and generosity of its season. The bouquet is a luxurious mélange of violet whispers and truffle echoes that invite contemplation. Indeed, it is a collectors’ pièce de résistance promising return on investment through its latent capacity to mature magnificently over time.

In essence, what sets the 2010 Richebourg apart is its immaculate balance and depth—a reflection of an arduous year that ultimately birthed greatness. Harmonic and hauntingly precise in its expression, this wine stands as an ode to exceptional viticultural prowess married gracefully to the caprices of mother nature.

To dwell upon the 2010 Richebourg from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti is to appreciate an artwork in motion—a wine assuredly etching its significance in the ledgers of discerning investors and connoisseurs alike. It remains a quintessential narrative within Burgundy's chronicles; one that promises to yield sumptuous rewards as it evolves in the sanctity of time-honoured cellars.

Current market price

£56,700.00

12x75cl

Highest score

95

POP score

3780

Scores and tasting notes

94-96

The 2010 Richebourg is a kaleidoscope of black fruit, graphite, mint, violets and spices. It is a towering, statuesque wine that completely saturates the palate in all directions, seemingly at the same time. The 2010 stands out for its beguiling, totally exquisite aromatics. The trademark Richebourg structure is present, but this seems to be a vintage where finesse takes precedence over sheer power. Anticipated maturity: 2030-2060. I tasted the 2010s twice from barrel, once in the summer just as the wines were about to be racked and then again during my early December visit. On both occasions the wines were stellar. Like virtually all of his colleagues, co-manager Aubert de Villaine was surprised by the level of the 2010s given all of the challenges of the growing season. I could repeat everything de Villaine told me, but there is no better source than the man himself, so readers who want to learn more about the 2010 harvest may want to take a look at my interview with de Villaine on www.erobertparker.com. Overall, I am very impressed with the 2010s with the exception of the Corton, which appears to be a notch or two below the 2009. The 2010 that most greatly exceeds its appellation and historical level of quality is the Echezeaux. I also tasted the 2010 Vosne-Romanee Cuvee Duvault-Blochet but the domaine had not yet decided if the wine would be released. I will report on the 2009s in our April issue. Importer: Wilson-Daniels, St. Helena, CA; tel. (707) 963-9661

Antonio Galloni - The Wine Advocate, 22 December 2011

Vintage performance