The 1997 Romanee-Conti reveals a saturated dark ruby color as well as a mouth-watering nose of leather, juniper berries, cherries, and spices. On the palate, it marvelously combines the powerful, ripe fruit characteristic of the vintage with magnificent delineation and elegance. This soy sauce, licorice, flower, as well as blackberry flavored wine is dense and concentrated, yet lace-like and gloriously precise. It stands, as is expected given its rarity, price, and reputation, as one of the stars of the vintage. Projected maturity: 2001-2012+. Importer: Wilson-Daniels, St. Helena, CA; tel (707) 963-9661.

A bit sour, it tastes mature, with mushrooms and wet underbrush. Medium-bodied and astringent, the tough tannins don't flatter it. A bit dry on the finish for now; will it improve with age? Best from 2003 through 2009. 400 cases made.??–PM??Region: France / Burgundy / Romanée-Conti Select to Add