Domaine Romanée Conti Romanée Conti 1991

Robert Parker: The 1991 Romanée Conti Grand Cru was tasted at the same private dinner in Beaune with the 1978 and the awry 1966. Whilst I was totally smitten by the 1978, this 1991 did not quite engage the senses as I thought it would, writing as a big fan of the 1991 vintage. The aromatics are mute at first and you get the sense that it is holding everything back despite being over 20 years old and my rigorous swirling of the glass. Red berries and subtle undergrowth scents emerge, bay leaf. The palate is structured and a little rigid at the moment, hints of white pepper emerging with time, dusky red berry fruit, quite structured and masculine. Strangely I had fonder memories of the La Tâche 1991, drunk twice earlier this year. I could not quite engage with this Romanée-Conti as I did with the 1978. Perhaps that was just its showing on the day? I hope I get the opportunity to find out. 92/100 (2015)

James Suckling (zu 1990): Ethereal is the word here. It is weightless and endless on both the nose and palate. Lovely dark garnet with a ruby hue. The aromas show pure strawberry, rose petal, candied oranges and lavender. I could go on and on. It’s full-bodied with very fine tannins and a wonderful and energetic finish. Surreal in many ways. A benchmark. 100/100 (2022)