Tasting Notes

WA92

Domaine De La Romanee-Conti`s 2006 Echezeaux is significantly more perfumed and brighter than the corresponding Duvault-Blochet cuvee. Cherry, red raspberry, and grenadine in the nose are alluringly entwined with bittersweet, iris-like floral perfume and tinged with flattering, oak-enhanced nutmeg and vanilla. This displays the levity and textural refinement one comes to cherish in so many of the better wines of its vintage, and the persistent sense of florality perfectly suits the lift and vivacity of an invigoratingly lingering finish. At the same time, there is marrow-like meaty richness to add depth. The equilibrium here seems to me typically of 2006, too, but de Villaine also credits the equilibrium that the vines here – now averaging 45 years of age – have attained. There is more than enough tannin in place to match the wine`s energy and to insure at least 10-12 years of delight, but this is much more immediately charming than the corresponding 2005.

BH92

Just as it was from the very beginning the expressive nose of maturing red and black fruit is markedly floral in character with a plethora of spice and earth nuances. There is good richness to the round and delicious middle weight flavors that possess an attractively textured and punchy finish that delivers good if not truly special depth and length. I very much like the overall sense of balance and about the only nit is a trace of backend warmth. This is approaching its initial drinking window though for my taste the `06 Ech should benefit from another 3 to 5 years or so of cellaring.

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