1989 DRC Domaine de la Romanée-Conti Richebourg Grand Cru

Mostly bricked through. Like most of the DRC '89s, this initially seemed as though it was in a time warp with virtually no discernable aromatic development but after 20 minutes or so of air, there are hints of secondary aromas, game, leather and spice. The impressively scaled flavors though are big, rich and intense, underpinned by surprisingly rustic tannins and offering fine length. This is a formidable wine for the vintage with plenty of character and still discernable if softening structure that should enable it to hold for another 20 years or so. Tasted on multiple occasions with largely consistent notes.

The 1989 Richebourg Grand Cru is finally beginning to unwind, offering up pretty aromas of plums and dark berries mingled with peonies, spices and potpourri. Medium to full-bodied, lively and perfumed, with a taut core of fruit and a saline finish...