2004 Vosne Romanee Clos du Chateau
By Domaine du Comte Liger-Belair
2004 Vosne Romanee Clos du Chateau from Domaine du Comte Liger-Belair
Dissecting the various qualities of the 2004 Vosne Romanee Clos du Chateau from Domaine du Comte Liger-Belair presents a narrative fraught with climatic challenges yet concludes with an exemplary demonstration of winemaking acumen. In the pantheon of Burgundian vintages, 2004 was marked by its capricious weather, leading to a season that demanded exacting viticultural precision and foresight.
Remarkable Resilience and Terroir Expression
The journey of the 2004 vintage through the fickle realms of Burgundy's weather patterns underscores not just resilience but also Liger-Belair's unwavering commitment to expressing the quintessence of Vosne Romanee's terroir. A struggle against mildew was a defining chapter for this year, inevitably shaping the character of the vintage.
Yet, in the glass, one finds that the 2004 Vosne Romanee Clos du Chateau surmounted these adversities. As one tastes, they are greeted by an intricate weave of tart crimson fruits, an earthiness that whispers of the clos's hallowed grounds, and a subtle suggestion of spice threaded through its rich yet elegant structure—a testament to this confined vintage's triumphs over trials.
An Investment in Patience and Potential
A refined tannic presence lends this wine a spine that not only sustained it through its early days post-release but promises further evolution for those collectors who invested in patience. It seems poised to unfurl additional layers of complexity as it continues to slumber in cellars. Considerations for wine investment must acknowledge both the rarity induced by 2004’s challenging conditions and the rewards presented by such a storied plot managed so adeptly by Domaine du Comte Liger-Belair.
In closing, when one reflects upon the 2004 Vosne Romanee Clos du Chateau, what stands out is not merely resilience but also a thoughtful expression of place specific to this particular adversity-laden chapter in Burgundian history. For collectors seeking an emblematic slice of Burgundy's tapestry—one that tells a tale of overcoming viticultural tribulations—the meritocentricity found within this bottle cannot be overemphasized.
Market price (CAD)
$40,330.00
12x75cl
Highest score
83
POP score
8080
Scores and tasting notes
Tasted at the Comte Liger-Belair vertical at the Château de Vosne. The 2004 Vosne-Romanée Clos du Château actually has an attractive nose and demonstrated less of the "green meanies" than the La Romanée '04 at least at first...then they start to appear and usurp the rustic red berry fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with a raw entry and rather harsh tannin, a bitter edge toward the finish. Frankly, I can take or leave this Clos du Château and might actually prefer the drinkability of the 2003. Tasted June 2015.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 30 July 2015