2001 Grand Echezeaux
By Domaine de la Romanee-Conti
2001 Grand Echezeaux from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti, Burgundy, France
In the pantheon of Burgundy's endeared patches of terroir, few command the reverence quite like Domaine de la Romanee-Conti's prized parcels. It is here we unearth the remarkable 2001 Grand Echezeaux – a vintage that continues to elegantly unfurl in the glass like silk from a spool, revealing a confluence of sophistication and raw power.
Precise Pedigree: A Wine Investor’s Beacon
For enthusiasts and investors alike, provenance remains paramount, and the pedigree of the 2001 Grand Echezeaux from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti is beyond reproach. With meticulous stewardship guiding its evolution from vine to bottle, this wine stands as a bastion for collectors and a testament to the enduring legacy of its maker.
A Vintage Defined by Harmonious Contrasts
The weather patterns of 2001 tilled the soil of greatness in Burgundy with a growing season that played out like a Wagnerian opera; moments of intensity followed by periods of serene calm. These conditions yielded fruit that was both robust and imbued with an intricate array of flavours, culminating in a Grand Echezeaux of significant acclaim.
One finds in the 2001 vintage a tapestry interwoven with ripe dark cherries and earthy undertones, a nod to the savoir-faire of the vintners in harmonising fruit character with Burgundian terroir. Subtle whispers of oak lend structure without overshadowing the vibrancy of the fruit—a dance between power and finesse.
Two decades on, this deep ruby treasure continues to exhibit a vibrant core, with tertiary notes beginning to surface amidst its youthful exuberance. The palate is seduced by its velvety tannins while held in thrall by an endless symphony of complex flavour crescendos.
Anchored by its storied origins, the 2001 Grand Echezeaux is witnessing an illustrious chapter as it reaches its pinnacle expression. It is not merely a vessel for investment but a bearer of moments crystallised in time – for those seeking to weave the historical tapestry of fine wine into their portfolio, this vintage offers an opportunity to partake in Burgundy's luxurious narrative.
Market price (HKD)
HK$376,380.00
12x75cl
Highest score
89
POP score
4375.56
Scores and tasting notes
Mouth-watering aromas of blackberries and spices can be found in the nose of the ruby-colored 2001 Grands-Echezeaux. A seductive, medium-bodied, satin-textured wine, it coats the taster’s palate with loads of dark fruits. This is a well-endowed, pure effort with a long, flavorful finish. Drink it over the next 8-10 years. Concerning the 2001s, de Villaine, the Domaine de la Romanee-Conti’s co-director, stated that “it was not an easy year, it was a real roller coaster for vignerons. The estate’s vineyards, like everyone in Burgundy, had rot infestations so we did two harvests, one for the best, healthiest bunches and then another. Of course, we meticulously sorted all the fruit as we always do.” Those readers who are always looking for news concerning the next vintage will be interested to hear the following. Unlike almost all his colleagues who said that 2002 was going to be a spectacular vintage, de Villaine informed me that it would “another irregular year.” Importer: Wilson-Daniels, St. Helena, CA; tel. (707) 963-9661
Pierre Rovani - The Wine Advocate, 29 June 2003