2005 Domaine de la Romanee-Conti, Echezeaux Grand Cru

Antonio Galloni 94

Next to the super-refined, delicate 2006s, the 2005s come across as deeper and richer in personality. That is quite evident in the 2005 Echezeaux, a wonderfully lifted, precise Burgundy that is just starting to blossom. Today, the 2005 is all about nuance and detail. This is a terrific showing. Once again, in 2005 the Echezeaux is a real overachiever. [Antonio Galloni, 02/01/2015]

Anticipated maturity: 2018-2045

Vinous 92+

Good deep red. Explosive aromas of redcurrant liqueur, tobacco, tar, minerals and chocolate, plus hints of decadent underbrush. Sweet redcurrant and mocha flavors show a slightly roasted aspect and elevated alcohol but also possess very good vinosity, with complicating soil tones adding nuance. Finishes uncompromisingly dry, with substantial tannins. I’d expect this seriously deep wine to go into a shell in the very near future. [Stephen Tanzer, 03/01/2008]

Wine Advocate 94

A pale ruby colour with soft, light crimson rim. This has simply a gorgeous, quite ravishing nose that is nigh irresistible. Bright red cherries fruit, wild strawberries infused with very ripe, almost exotic fruit such as star anis, blood orange and a touch of apricot. Very fine definition. After five minutes in the glass the nose is billowing, gaining intensity with more of the red fruit component taking over from the exotic. Hints of mocha and smoke. Very complex bouquet for an Echezeaux. After fifteen minutes the nose is mellowing out, harmonizing. The palate is medium-bodied, very good acidity, vibrant and vivacious with pretty red-berried fruit, a touch of wild hedgerow and a touch of bilberry. The filigree tannins ensure this is a very approachable, feminine wine with a light but persistent, graceful finish with just a touch of earthiness. A precocious charmer. Tasted February 2008. [Neal Martin, 01/02/2008]

JancisRobinson.com 18.0

Feb 14, presumably opened three or four hours Brilliant crimson, and a reasonably brilliant nose. Bright fruit and rather soft edges – pretty engaging and even quite forward. Very vivacious though a little bit muted. And no peacock’s tail on the finish. [19/02/2008]

Anticipated maturity: 2013-2025