Tasting Notes
Vinous 93+
The 1996 Ruchottes-Chambertin was cropped at just 27hl/ha. Now with 21 years on the clock, atypical for this vintage, it has a sensual bouquet with scents of red fruit, cassis, quince and violet, though with continued aeration it develops a subtle earthiness. The palate is marked by very fine tannin, well judged acidity and quite a structured second half. This is still quite backward, but there is something very stylish here and for those with extraordinary patience it may well blossom…eventually! Tasted at the Ruchottes-Chambertin vertical in London.
Anticipated maturity: 2018-2032
Robert Parker 92-94
This wine is spectacular. This medium-to-dark ruby-colored offering has beguiling aromas reminiscent of spiced and sweetened cherries and assorted flowers dusted with freshly cracked white pepper. It is a medium-to-full-bodied, creamy-textured, concentrated, and magnificently refined wine that has flavors of raspberries, cherries, strawberries, minerals, and Asian spices in its delightfully harmonious core. Even though this wine is intensely ripe and plump, it has outstanding balance and focus as well as a prodigiously long finish. I would not be surprised if my score seemed overly conservative in a few years. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2012+. Wow!
Anticipated maturity: 2004-2012
