2013 Echezeaux
By Domaine de la Romanee-Conti
2013 Echezeaux from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti, Burgundy
The expansive world of fine wines is punctuated by certain vintages that naturally garner the adulation of connoisseurs and investors alike. Among such vintages, the 2013 Echezeaux from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti asserts a formidable presence. The Grand Cru vineyards of Echezeaux have long been heralded for crafting wines that express purity and complexity, and the 2013 offering stands as a testament to the skilled winemaking that persists in Burgundy.
The Vintage's Voice in the Vine
Burgundy’s 2013 vintage was one less sung about, yet it is precisely its under-the-radar nature that charms the astute investor. Met with challenges from a cool spring and hailstorms that necessitated more attentive vineyard husbandry, the harvest yielded grapes that were defined as much by their resilience as by their finesse. These careful conditions cultivated a character in the 2013 Echezeaux from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti that showcases restraint and depth.
A Compelling Narrative on the Nose and Palate
The subtle narrative of this wine commences on the nose, welcoming with hints of spiced cherry and sous-bois, characteristic of its esteemed terroir. The palate follows, engaging with an elegant tannic structure, yet promising longevity—a crucial factor for judicious investors. A melody of red fruit flavours entwined with earthy undertones gives way to a measured and tantalisingly long finish.
Devotees of Domaine de la Romanee-Conti will recognize the distinctiveness brought forth by these challenging climatic conditions—the alchemy turning restraint into a virtue. Its potential for evolution only enhances its allure among those looking to diversify their portfolios with sophisticated offerings.
In summation, the 2013 Echezeaux from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti emerges as a reflection of meticulous viticulture meeting the whimsy of Mother Nature—a narrative woven into each sip. With an eye towards maturation and value appreciation, this vintage is poised to reward those who appreciate subtlety intertwined with steadfast quality.
Market price (GBP)
£27,430.00
12x75cl
Highest score
92
POP score
2285.83
Scores and tasting notes
The 2013 Echézeaux Grand Cru was picked on October 12 and the following day (in the afternoon, if you want specifics!). Cropped at 15.5 hectoliters per hectare, the lowest of all the domaine's 2013s, it has a fragrant Morello cherry, crushed strawberry-scented bouquet that is precise and nicely focused, if lacking the horsepower of a more benevolent growing season. The palate is medium-bodied with crisp red cherry and strawberry fruit on the entry. Fresh and poised, I am impressed by the weight shown on the mid-palate, so much so that you might be deceived into mistaking it for the Grands Echézeaux or even the Richebourg, albeit on a less scale. There is just a dash of spice towards the finish as it gently fans out and leaves you satisfied. "A quite ambitious Echézeaux in the making," I remarked out of barrel. I would not alter that view now that this lovely Echézeaux is in bottle. Production is 715 cases. Tasted February 2016.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 3 March 2016