2013 La Tache
By Domaine de la Romanee-Conti
2013 La Tache from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti, Burgundy, France
A beacon among Burgundian marvels, the 2013 La Tache from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti is a narrative of resilience and finesse. This particular vintage, birthed in a year beset by nature's challenges—from a cold, wet spring to a summer a marked by hailstorms—has managed to rise with grace and complexity that affirms the mastery behind its creation.
The Singular Character of a Challenging Vintage
The 2013 vintage tells the story of a season where meticulous vineyard management and the unwavering dedication of winemakers were absolutely paramount. Although these conditions often precipitate lower yields, they culminate in a wine that is intensely focused, with a tapestry of flavours that deftly mirror the unique trials of the growing season.
Sipping the 2013 La Tache unveils layers of evolving aromatic complexity – an entwined dance of wild berries, Asian spices, and a whisper of violet and rose petals. While this vintage embodies the quintessence of Pinot Noir's elusive charm when married with Vosne-Romanée's noble earth, it also exhibits a spirited acidity and tannic structure that promises both immediate pleasure and cellar-worthy ageing potential.
An Investable Artefact from a Singular Terroir
For any discerning fine wine investor, the investment lens must view more than just financial appreciation; it must appreciate the story, rarity and underlying quality of each bottle. The 2013 La Tache is a vivid testament not only to its coveted appellation but also to the tenacity of winemaking brilliance under duress. Its intricate balance and depth are hallmarks of what can be achieved in years where nature tests the fortitude of vine and vintner alike.
The profound essence captured in this Burgundian elixir represents an exquisite addition for collectors seeking distinction in their portfolios. And as time embellishes its character further, one anticipates that its narrative will only grow richer within the silken confines of the cellar.
In Summary
The pages of history remember well those vintages that transcend expectations shaped by their climatic hand. The 2013 La Tache from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti encapsulates such an achievement—an investable work of art that stands defiantly elegant amidst the chronicles of Burgundy's formidable years. With each glass carrying whispers from its storied terroir, it unfailingly invites one to explore the depths of its vinous poetry.
Market price (GBP)
£48,880.00
12x75cl
Highest score
97
POP score
2875.29
Scores and tasting notes
The 2013 La Tâche Grand Cru was picked from the afternoon of October 7 and over the next two days at 18 hectoliters per hectare. It has a heavenly nose with exquisite mineral-rich red cherry, wild strawberry, blood orange and subtle woodland, damp autumn leaf and moss aromas that are extraordinarily complex. It seems to gain vigor and intensity with each swirl of the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with very fine tannin, a slightly suppler La Tâche compared to recent years, a wine with an athleticism. There is nothing wasted or superfluous here, a honed La Tâche that is all about tensile structure matched by perfect acidity and an incredibly complex, kaleidoscopic finish that seems so mercurial in the glass, initially offering red fruit then changing its mind and revealing darker and more tertiary notes. In a word: awesome. Production is 1,023 cases. Tasted February 2016.
Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 3 March 2016