Monday, October 17, 2005

Domaine Romanee-Conti

Romanee, in the Burgundy region of France, has an interesting history and produces some of the most celebrated, and pricey, wines on the market today.

The vineyards here trace back, at least, to the 15th century and possibly even earlier. Cultivated by the monks of Saint-Viviant, who are the namesake for the very famous Romanee-Conti La Romanee St. Vivant offering, the history of wine production is as rich as the wine itself. Lovely pinot noir grapes grow better here than anywhere else. And virtually no one produces as fine a wine from these grapes as Domaine Romanee-Conti, or, as it is universally known - DRC.


Domain Romanee-Conti la Romanee Conti

An excellent Pinot Noir, Romanee-Conti La Romanee Conti can be on the pricey side. Of course there are variations among the vintages, but you can expect this wine to have a spicy, cherry fruit flavor with a fine texture. Excellent acidity and firm tannins give this family of wines a great finish. While all are recommended, highly recommended vintages include 2002, truly a superior year, 2000, and 2001.

La Richebourg

A fine offering from the Romanee Conti Vineyards, these wines are firm and penetrating. Not too sweet, with a dry tannic spine, Romanee-Conti La Richebourg portrays the integrity of the Pinot Noir grapes as they were meant to be experienced. Vintages worthy of attention include: 1999, 1998, and 2000.

La Montrachet

Dry taste and white color, La Montrachet is a classic example of the Chardonnay wines. And, Romanee-Conti Domaine de la Montrachet is a wine with an exclusive pricetag. This fabulous white is golden and lovely to behold with a hint of buttered toast, hazelnut and smoky spices. Intense, muscular, and amazing it is highly regarded among connoisseurs. Vintages that must be considered are 1999, 1985, 1969

La Tache

Another fine example of a pinot noir that is highly regarded by those who are in the know. Romanee-Conti's La Tache shows great acidity and are deep red-purple with a full body. Vintages of note include 2000, 1989and 1990. They are superb complements to many meals but have a rare complexity that encourages oe to drink them alone and with appreciation.

Grand Echezeaux

Brilliant medium to deep red color, this pinot noir is accessible. While sporting the typical dry, pinot flavor, the Romanee-Conti Grand Echezeaux isn't too heavy. Good body with strong tannic backbone, the cherry tones and fruity flavors do not overpower. This is a good multidimensional wine. Recommended vintages include 2000, 1997 and 2001.


La Vosne Romanee

A unique wine in the pinot noir family, Romanee-Conti La Vosne Romanee is a lovely example is complex and layered. With a rose, violet and red cherry nose, it is lush and amazing. Just the right hint of the oak and firm tannins to give the wine excellent support it lingers, lovingly. The fruitiness of this wine is sweet but with just the right amount of acidity cutting in. Check out the1999 .