2001 Domaine de la Romanee-Conti, Echezeaux Grand Cru

The 2001 Échézeaux is wonderfully lifted and delicate, with distinct elements of dried rose petal and sweet spices that are woven throughout. I don’t see the 2001 making very old bones, but it is quite expressive today.

Knockout sexy black fruit aromas trimmed in a deft touch of oak and distinct animale notes with expressive, full, pure, sweet and quite powerful flavors and a long, persistent, mouth coating finish. The amount of sève is impressive as is the sheer spiciness and this is a good deal more refined than it usually is. A great vintage for this wine.

Very good deep red. Sappy aromas of strawberry, raspberry, mulberry and smoked meat. Tight, spicy and firm; sound acids give freshness to the flavors. More tightly structured than the 2000; this should develop more slowly in bottle.

Dark ruby well shaded. Light nose that’s quite true and broad and welcoming. Slightly mushroom-like flavours hit the palate but there is notable acidity here too and quite hard tannins. Not rich! Nor especially long. Can’t see this really being a richly rewarding drink. (JR)