Richebourg, Domaine de la Romanée Conti 1997

An expressive nose amply reflects the ripeness of the '97 vintage with its floral and spicy black berry fruit aromas that are both elegant and refined while transitioning into rich, sweet and full-bodied flavors that possess good muscle and solid if not sensational depth and length. In sum, this is a quality '97 that should benefit from another 5 or so years in the cellar.

The similarly coloured (ruby) 1997 Richebourg is substantially bigger and more flavourful. Its rose, violet, talcum powder, and crushed berry-scented nose leads to a boisterous, dense personality. Medium to full-bodied and loaded with spices, freshly ground black pepper, and blackberries, this is a deeply ripe, expressive wine. Projected maturity: now-2009.