1999 La Tache from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti, Burgundy, France

Enthusiasts of Burgundy's illustrious terroir look fondly upon the 1999 vintage, as it gave us an array of wines whose vivacity and charm have anchored their status amongst collectors. The 1999 La Tache from Domaine de la Romanee-Conti (DRC), exemplifies the year's exceptional character with a performance that remains vivid in my sensorial memory.

Elegance Amidst the Storm: The 1999 Vintage

The year was not without its challenges; an unseasonably warm spring followed by a damp August stirred concern amongst vignerons. However, a spectacular September, blessed with sunshine and cool nights, swung the pendulum back to favour. The result was a bounty of grapes perched between perfect ripeness and requisite acidity - a duality that dances harmoniously in this outstanding La Tache.

A Complex Tapestry: Tasting the 1999 La Tache

The 1999 La Tache presents itself with an enchanting aromatic palette. One is greeted by a flourish of dark cherries and ripe strawberries, gently lacquered with a varnish of sweet spice and a whisper of earthiness – a hallmark of DRC's mastery in expressing terroir. On the palate, the wine unfolds with astounding complexity; layers of fruit interweave with an autumnal underbrush note and a kernel of minerality that harks back to Burgundy's storied soil. The texture is silken yet profound, leading to a finish that resonates with elegance and persuasive length.

For investors, understanding the narrative behind each bottle is vital. The 1999 La Tache is not merely a beverage; it's akin to capturing time within glass—a heartwood core of Burgundian winemaking philosophy transmuted into liquid form. Its investment potential lies in its rarity and pedigree; after all, securing DRC bottles from noteworthy vintages is often at the zenith of collector ambitions.

It stands as one of the luminaries of red Burgundy, poised magnificently at two decades and indicative of further graceful ageing potential—a testament to both vineyard and year.

To Savour Now or To Cellar?

The current state of maturity for the 1999 La Tache affords great pleasure for those opting to uncork now. Yet there remains an indomitable structure suggesting significant further development potential for years to come. Discerning investors bear witness to how such vintages only heighten in desirability with each passing year, solidifying their place within truly diversified portfolios.