2014 DRC, La Tache Grand Cru 1x75cl

JancisRobinson.com – 19

Lightish garnet. Like the Richebourg, there is an initial sweetness here. Smells so cool and delicately fragrant. Then on the palate, there is real power, the tannins holding everything in tightly as on the Grands Échezeaux but here the acidity spills around the edges and lifts it to terrific intensity on the palate. Firm, chalky texture but still fluid. Long and so refined that the power is disguised. In the empty glass, there is a return to fruit sweetness, showing the complexity and range in this wine. (JH) [02/02/2017]

Anticipated maturity: 2034-2050

Burghound – 96

Fireworks in a glass would be the operative description of the super-fresh nose of the 2014 La Tâche and while it’s not necessarily spicier or more floral than the Riche, there is a broader range of elements present and in particular better overall aromatic depth along with more red fruits than dark. The imposingly powerful and tautly muscular flavors possess outstanding mid-palate density while simultaneously offering excellent delineation on the intensely mineral-infused, youthfully austere and very firmly structured finish that just goes on and on. While I suspect that this will drink reasonably well after only 15 to 18 years of bottle age note well that if you want to drink it when fully mature it will require in the range of 20 to 25 years of cellaring. [15/01/2017]

Vinous – 96+

Bright medium red Ineffably complex, pure scents of fresh raspberry, cherry, rose petal, peppery spices, crushed herbs and mint Almost surprisingly silky on entry, then sweet but very restrained, even a bit ungiving, in the middle palate, with pungent red berry and mineral flavors conveying an impression of electric energy This wine builds slowly and inexorably with air, opening out into a peacock’s talk of a finish that’s lifted by a pungent hint of green pepper This youthfully austere wine will need a good 15 years to display its inherent flesh and richness but even today it stands out for its finesse [Stephen Tanzer, 03/01/2017]

Anticipated maturity: 2030-2044