La Tâche, Domaine de la Romanée Conti 2002

This is very reserved though determined swirling reveals a nose that is exceptionally fine and pure with fantastic aromatic detail and an almost diaphanous transparency of expression that reveals all of the kaleidoscopic La Tâche spice box nose, including anise, clove, plums, high-toned black cherry, crushed red raspberry and more. The broad, expansive and powerful flavors are quite strict on the mid-palate with massive depth yet the finish is round, generous, sappy and superbly complex with a finish that lasts for minutes. Despite the aromatic fireworks and opulent character, there is an underlying tenderness here that suggests that this will be approachable relatively early but the balance is so fine that this should easily age for 30 years, perhaps longer.

Good deep, bright red. Dee p aromas of cherry, raspberry, minerals and Asian spices, lifted by a floral quality. Fat, sweet and full but lively; offers great volume without any undue weight. This shows exciting inner-palate energy and finishes with a sexy, deep core of spice. Very pretty, and very long. A superb showing today.