2009 Richebourg
By Domaine de la Romanee-Conti
2009 Richebourg from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti, Burgundy, France
The esteemed lineage of Burgundy's Grand Cru vines is splendidly exemplified in the 2009 Richebourg from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti. The commitment this hallowed estate exudes in each vintage is palpable, a testament to its near-mythical status among connoisseurs and investors alike. The 2009 vintage, in particular, triumphs as a standout for its pronounced expression and vibrant intensity.
A Year of Poise and Precision
The growing season of 2009 in Burgundy was lauded for its equanimity — a temperate year that bypassed extreme conditions to provide a setting where Richebourg's fabled vines could express their full potential. This resulted in a wine that simultaneously exhibits the bold structure one anticipates from this climat while showcasing individual nuances that are enshrined within this specific vintage.
Vintage Distinction
The 2009 Richebourg presents an aromatic labyrinth; initial forays reveal dark cherry and ripe blackberry which later give way to the more understated notes of earthy truffle and hints of violet. On the palate, one confronts the duality of power and elegance — a structured backbone typical of the Pinot Noir varietal frames layers of complex fruit with whispers of spice. The finish is remarkably persistent, commanding attention long after the nectar has departed.
It is a distinguished epoch in the annals of Richebourg — a wine poised for longevity but exhibiting an urbane grace straight out of the gate. The finesse seen here makes it eminently appreciable now, whilst its robust tannic structure and impeccable pedigree suggest an architectonic potential for investment growth.
Concluding Reflections
In summary, the 2009 Richebourg from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti stands as a paragon within an illustrious lineage; an astute acquisition for both the ardent collector and the prescient investor. Here we find a harmonious symphony between the year's favourable climatic canvas and the masterful artistry inherent at Domaine de la Romanee-Conti – producing a wine that lingers both on the palate and in memory, urging one to savour every drop of its vinous splendor.
Market price (GBP)
£38,800.00
12x75cl
Highest score
97
POP score
2282.35
Scores and tasting notes
The 2009 Richebourg is a dramatic wine. In 2009 there is so much fruit that the tannins are barely perceptible. With time in the glass dark notes of tar, smoke, licorice and violets develop, adding tons of complexity to the fruit. This is a huge, vertical wine that captures the essence of Richebourg in its towering fruit and structure. Layers of fruit saturate every corner of the palate as the wine builds to a deeply satisfying crescendo of head-spinning aromas and flavors. Anticipated maturity: 2024-2059. Domaine de la Romanee-Conti’s 2009s have turned out just as brilliantly as I had hoped. The wines reflect the signature qualities of the year, but never lose their essential classicism. Long-time DRC fans know the domaine bottles in six-barrel lots, which naturally introduces a level of bottle variation that is not found in most other wines. I hope the massive amount of information that has recently come to light regarding counterfeit wines and their proliferation might be the catalyst for the domaine to consider bottling their wines in one homogenous lot, as is common for the vast majority of high-quality wines throughout the world. Once the domaine’s wines mature in 20-30 years it will be impossible to tell the difference between ‘normal’ bottle variation, poorly stored bottles and very good fakes. Certainly consumers who are willing and able to pay the prices these wines fetch are at the very least deserving of a consistent product. Importer: Wilson-Daniels, St. Helena, CA; tel. (707) 963-9661
Antonio Galloni - The Wine Advocate, 25 April 2012