1990 Clos de la Roche
By Domaine Dujac
1990 Clos de la Roche from Domaine Dujac, Grand Cru, Burgundy
The 1990 vintage in Burgundy is etched in the annals of viticultural lore as an exemplar of harmony between climate and terroir. Amongst the array of majestic offerings from this year, the 1990 Clos de la Roche from Domaine Dujac stands as a testament to this historic alignment of stars. Forged from the vines of the celebrated Clos de la Roche Grand Cru, this wine is a crown jewel in the patinaed treasury of Burgundian viniculture.
A Fleet-Footed Vintage with Longevity
Following a winter cloaked in mildness and a benevolently dry spring, the growing season saw a burst of early flowering—a prelude to an optimal harvest that promised and delivered wines of dazzling structure and depth. The exceptional climatic conditions of '90 have coaxed out a complexity in Domaine Dujac's offering, marked by a characteristic finesse that impels connoisseurs and investors alike to its revered stature.
Distinctive Expression of Terroir
A harmonious interplay of autumnal ripeness with a litheness that belie its years, the 1990 Clos de la Roche ensnares the senses. Its aromatic overlay showcases sun-dappled cherry orchards, whilst the palate unfurls layers of earthy undertones, redolent with truffle and damp forest floor—all signature to its esteemed provenance in Burgundy.
The silken texture is masterfully complemented by supple tannins that offer an ardent whisper rather than an imperious declaration, allowing this vintage to age with an understated grace. For the discerning investor, this vintage not only imbues portfolios with prestige but signifies a wine maturing impeccably; promising splendour as it approaches its fourth decade.
An Astute Acquisition for the Collector
The importance of securing vintages like the 1990 Clos de la Roche cannot be overstated. As time marches inexorably on, these oenological relics—with their captured essence of a remarkable year—become increasingly elusive. For those who have had the prevision to include such vintage marvels within their collections, it stands as both a symbol of viticultural insight and a beacon for investment potential. With Domaine Dujac as its architect, this particular expression from one of Burgundy's most hallowed plots is destined to reign in the cellars and portfolios that cherish it.
Current market price
£80,600.00
12x75cl
Highest score
93
POP score
6200
Scores and tasting notes
Seysses's three best efforts in 1990, a vintage where his yields were only 35 hectoliters per hectare, include a soft, profound Clos St.-Denis, a full-bodied, tannic, muscular, dark-colored, sweet, superbly extracted Clos de la Roche, and the richest, most age-worthy wine of all, the Bonnes Mares. Unquestionably, the Clos de la Roche is darker in color, bigger-framed, and fuller-bodied than the Clos St. Denis. The nectar, honey-like texture of the 1990 vintage is well-displayed. The wine is superbly concentrated, with a huge fragrance, and long, moderately tannic, sweet flavors. Jacques Seysses is immensely proud of his 1990s, proclaiming them the finest wines he has made since 1978. He said the same thing about his 1985s, but I agree that the 1990s appear to have greater potential for longevity. Importers: Frederick Wildman, New York, NY, Chambers and Chambers, San Francisco, CA, and a handful of other importers who import Dujac's wines directly into their respective states.
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 22 October 1992