Domaine de la Romanee Conti   Echezeaux

2010 Echezeaux

By Domaine de la Romanee-Conti

2010 Echezeaux from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti, Burgundy, France

In the world of fine wines, certain vintages leap forth with an audacity that commands immediate reverence. Among these is the 2010 Echezeaux from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti, a beacon of Burgundian grandeur. This coveted nectar, bestowed upon us in a year noted for its capricious climate, has nevertheless emerged triumphant, dazzling with a brilliance that distinguishes it even within the storied tapestry of its lineage.

 

Exemplary Harvest, Outstanding Vintage

The journey to greatness for the 2010 vintage was not without challenge. A rigorous winter and erratic spring placed viticulturists in a tempest of anticipation. Patience and expertise were the tools with which the winemakers at Domaine de la Romanee-Conti sculpted their art, resulting in a wine of exceptional balance and depth.

Notably cooler than preceding years, 2010 in Burgundy presented conditions that honed the complexity and freshness in the grape. The Echezeaux is an elegant testament to this; delivering a palate layered with vibrant red fruit, suffused harmoniously with refined tannins and a sublime minerality. Aromatically, it entices with subtle hints of violet and spices—all hallmarks of an Echezeaux from this vintage.

 

An Investment Worthy Of Its Pedigree

Fine wine enthusiasts and astute investors will discern that the pedigree of 2010 Echezeaux is undeniably linked to its potential as a judicious inclusion in any well-curated portfolio. The finesse and grace of this vintage echo its capacity for longevity, promising continuous evolution in complexity over time.

With a decade already under its belt, this Echezeaux is entering a splendid phase of drinkability, yet holds the promise of further development. It stands as one among a few capable of not only gracing the most distinguished of cellars but also offering substantial potential for appreciation—a hallmark distinction for investors seeking tangible rewards from such illustrious bottles.

In summation, the 2010 Echezeaux from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti presents not just an extraordinary sensory indulgence but also an invitation to partake in Burgundy's rich patrimonial legacy—it is an exemplary embodiment of its terroir and vintage, ripe for acquisition by those who appreciate vinous magnificence partnered with investment wisdom.

Market price (USD)

$34,000.00

12x75cl

Highest score

94

POP score

1989.29

Scores and tasting notes

93-95

Things really take off with the 2010 Echezeaux, which is a meaningful step up from the earlier wines in this tasting. The 2010 surprises for its size and sheer volume. It boasts phenomenal depth and richness in its intense dark red fruit. The sheer energy and vibrancy of the fruit is remarkable. A huge, explosive finish makes it impossible to resist a second taste. This is a great showing from the Echezeaux, even if the 2010 is notably bigger than is typical for this bottling. The Echezeaux was the last fruit to be picked in 2010. Anticipated maturity: 2020-2040. I tasted the 2010s twice from barrel, once in the summer just as the wines were about to be racked and then again during my early December visit. On both occasions the wines were stellar. Like virtually all of his colleagues, co-manager Aubert de Villaine was surprised by the level of the 2010s given all of the challenges of the growing season. I could repeat everything de Villaine told me, but there is no better source than the man himself, so readers who want to learn more about the 2010 harvest may want to take a look at my interview with de Villaine on www.erobertparker.com. Overall, I am very impressed with the 2010s with the exception of the Corton, which appears to be a notch or two below the 2009. The 2010 that most greatly exceeds its appellation and historical level of quality is the Echezeaux. I also tasted the 2010 Vosne-Romanee Cuvee Duvault-Blochet but the domaine had not yet decided if the wine would be released. I will report on the 2009s in our April issue. Importer: Wilson-Daniels, St. Helena, CA; tel. (707) 963-9661

Antonio Galloni - The Wine Advocate, 22 December 2011

Vintage performance