Domaine de la Romanée Conti, La Tache Grand Cru 2001

robert_parker95

Reviewed by: Neal Martin

A touch of brick on the rim. The nose is quite subdued for La Tache, a hint of melted tar on a hot summer’s day, wild hedgerow, almost Musigny-like in persona. The palate is similarly very closed, perhaps in an adolescent stage similar to the La Tache 1996 tasted alongside. But its velvety tannins are discernable, the finely poised balance and vibrant acidity. Hints of black plum and dried herbs towards the finish that has a touch of stalkiness that for me just adds complexity. It does not quite have the weight of the 1996; likewise I would leave this another 5-8 years before opening. Tasted February 2008.

robert_parker96

Reviewed by: Neal Martin

Noticeably darker in colour to the other DRC 2001’s. The nose closed down after 5 minutes then reopened to reveal notes tar, cigar-box and espresso coffee. Very Burgundian. Good concentration on the palate with wonderful delineation. Superb acidity, the oak is quite pronounced with well-integrated tannins. Sour cherry and strawberry on the mid-palate with a persistent finish. Does not have the concentration of a truly great La Tache but still a wonderful wine nonetheless. 10+ years. (1,649 cases produced) Tasted February 2004.

robert_parker93

Reviewed by: Pierre Rovani

Earth-laced blackberries can be discerned in the nose of the 2001 La Tache. Suave, plush, and regal, it boasts loads of candied black fruits in its deep character. This supple wine reveals superb clarity of fruit and an impressively long, fruit-filled finish. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2012. Concerning the 2001s, de Villaine, the Domaine de la Romanee-Conti’s co-director, stated that “it was not an easy year, it was a real roller coaster for vignerons. The estate’s vineyards, like everyone in Burgundy, had rot infestations so we did two harvests, one for the best, healthiest bunches and then another. Of course, we meticulously sorted all the fruit as we always do.” Those readers who are always looking for news concerning the next vintage will be interested to hear the following. Unlike almost all his colleagues who said that 2002 was going to be a spectacular vintage, de Villaine informed me that it would “another irregular year.” Importer: Wilson-Daniels, St. Helena, CA; tel. (707) 963-9661