Domaine de la Romanee-Conti Echezeaux 2014 750ml

The 2014 Échezeaux from Domaine de la Romanée-Conti has now entered a sublime phase of its evolution, demonstrating why DRC's wines are considered among the world's most age-worthy. This Grand Cru, often considered the domaine's entry point to their legendary range, here shows that even their 'basic' Grand Cru possesses extraordinary complexity and longevity when given time to develop.

The nose has evolved magnificently over the past decade, now showing the perfect integration of primary, secondary, and emerging tertiary aromas. The fresh red fruits of youth have transformed into preserved cherry, fig, and dried strawberry, while the floral notes have evolved from fresh violets to potpourri and dried roses. What's particularly captivating is the emergence of classic aged Burgundy complexity - leather, truffle, forest floor, and that distinctive sous-bois character that speaks to perfect maturation.

On the palate, this wine has reached a point of extraordinary harmony. The once firm tannins have completely integrated, creating a texture of liquid silk that seems to caress every part of the palate. The 2014 vintage, initially characterized by its freshness and precision, now shows how that natural acidity has preserved the wine beautifully while allowing complex development. Flavors of dried cherry, fig, and prune intermingle with notes of black tea, exotic spices, and aged balsamic, creating layers that unfold continuously.

What distinguishes this DRC Échezeaux is not just its quality but its perfect balance between power and delicacy. Even with a decade of age, there's no sense of the wine falling apart or losing its core. Instead, it has gained complexity while maintaining its essential vitality. Notes of truffle, game, autumn leaves, and sweet tobacco speak to ideal cellar conditions and the wine's impeccable pedigree. The mineral character, always present in great Échezeaux, now shows as aged iron and wet earth.

The 2014 vintage's character has evolved beautifully - what was once criticized as perhaps too light or acidic now reveals itself as classical Burgundy structure that has enabled this gorgeous development. This is DRC at its most intellectually engaging, requiring attention and contemplation to fully appreciate its nuances. Every sip reveals new facets, making this a wine best enjoyed over the course of an evening.

The finish is extraordinarily long and complex, with waves of evolved fruit, spice, earth, and mineral notes that seem to last forever. This wine has reached its optimal drinking window and should continue to provide pleasure for another decade. It pairs magnificently with cuisine that matches its evolved character - aged game, truffle preparations, or simply savored on its own to fully appreciate one of Burgundy's greatest expressions. For those fortunate enough to have this in their cellar, now is the time to experience DRC's magic at its peak.