2008 Echezeaux
By Domaine de la Romanee-Conti
2008 Echezeaux from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti, Burgundy, France
The robust 2008 vintage was one heralded for its dynamic expression and veritable challenge to the vintners within the revered terroir of Echezeaux. The expertise of Domaine de la Romanee-Conti was put to test in a year defined by its climatic whimsies, resulting in a wine that stands out distinctively amongst its peers.
Challenging Climes, Charming Wines
The ebb and flow of the 2008 growing season in Burgundy, marked by cool, wet periods followed by fortuitous warmth just before harvest, brought forth a wine that is remarkably vibrant yet intricate. The legacy of this year can be savoured in the glass, where one finds an Echezeaux that exudes a panoply of aromatic subtlety underpinned by a well-knitted tannic structure.
This 2008 Echezeaux is a testament to the resilience of Pinot Noir when fostered by the dexterous hands at Domaine de la Romanee-Conti. The ache of anticipation felt as winemakers awaited the optimal maturation has translated into an exquisite tension within this vintage; a compendium of ripe red fruit laced with earthen whispers and an ethereal spice that prompts introspection with each sip.
A Vintage Most Stately for the Sagacious Investor
Connoisseurs and astute investors alike understand the gravity commanded by a bottle of Domaine de la Romanee-Conti's 2008 Echezeaux. It poses not just as a hedonistic treasure but also stands as an intelligent addition to any well-curated portfolio. The equilibrium achieved between vigour and grace in this vintage carries the assurance of appreciation, both sensory and fiduciary, defying time with poise and persistence.
Embarking on the journey this 2008 Echezeaux offers is to partake in an experience so emblematic of both the blessings and trials bestowed upon Burgundy's hallowed grounds that year. Its narrative is woven seamlessly with virtue and vitality – attributes which, when bottled, signal not just a magnificent opus for present gratification but potential for future reverence.
Market price (HKD)
HK$248,940.00
12x75cl
Highest score
94
POP score
1860
Scores and tasting notes
The 2008 Echezeaux is a noticeable step up in quality from the Vosne-Romanee. This is a decidedly rich, powerful Echezeaux endowed with considerable muscle. The aromas and flavors build beautifully towards a dazzling, harmonious finish. The 2008 is a big Echezeaux that could use further time in the cellar. There is plenty of underlying structure to support a long life in the cellar. The 2008 is seriously impressive. If any wine can be said to represent ‘value’ among the Domaine’s 2008s, the Echezeaux is it. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2038. tasted the 2008s in bottle in late June 2011 after having gone through the 2010s from barrel. Aubert de Villaine describes 2008 as a difficult vintage with a lot of rain. Botrytis was an issue and the vineyards required constant attention. On September 14 the weather changed dramatically. A steady north wind dried out the grapes and concentrated sugars quickly, which also reduced the size of the berries. A further selection of fruit lowered yields to an even greater extent, resulting in overall production that is as much as 50% lower than normal for the Domaine. As for the wines, they are magnificent in my view, but will require considerable patience. Importer: Wilson-Daniels, St. Helena, CA; tel. (707) 963-9661
Antonio Galloni - The Wine Advocate, 29 September 2011