2000 Echezeaux

The Echézeaux 2000 from Domaine de la Romanée-Conti won the hearts of everyone around the table–one of those wines that you just cannot help falling for. It has a dark garnet core with thin bricking on the rim. The nose is actually reminiscent of a fine Musigny from de Vogüé, a little introverted at first but it's just kidding with you and bursts open with infectious joie de vivre. The palate is medium-bodied, quite linear at first with superb tension and energy. No, it is not as complex as the Grands Echézeaux 2000 but that Loire-like, sappy finish is beguiling. Drink now and enjoy over the next 15 years. Given the growing season this performs way above expectations.

Very pretty deep ruby with a slightly rustic nose at this stage. True and juicy on the nose. Scented, delicate, round and supple. Good acidity. Nice balance with tannins not being particularly obvious at this stage. Instead, open and charming on this particular day (Aubert seemed slightly surprised but did say that Echezeaux was particularly successful in 2000) with a note of griotte cherries. Not enormous in scale but already quite long. (JR)