Domaine de la Romanee Conti Grands Echezeaux 1996

From an outstanding vintage for DRC, the 1996 Grands Echezeaux is a spice- and violet-scented Grand Cru red now three decades into its life.

An expressive nose displays lovely spice and violet aromas offering more elegance and finesse than usual, leading to rich, sweet and moderately structured flavours supported by bright but not aggressive acidity and excellent finishing persistence. Aromas of rose, earth, chocolate, spice, cedar and mahogany make up a complex nose, with some bottles showing a leaner, drier character typical of well-aged Burgundy.

• Producer: Domaine de la Romanee-Conti
• Country: France
• Region: Burgundy
• Appellation: Grands Echezeaux Grand Cru
• Vintage: 1996
• Grape: 100% Pinot Noir
• Bottle size: 75cl
• Alcohol: 13% ABV
• Style: Full-bodied dry red wine, now fully mature
• Serving temperature: 15-17C
• Decanting: Decant gently 30 minutes before serving; check for sediment given its age
• Food pairing: Roast duck, game birds, aged soft cheeses
• Storage: Store horizontally in a cool, dark place with a stable temperature
• Drinking window: Fully mature; a wine for drinking now