2008 Alain Hudelot-Noellat, Richebourg Grand Cru 1x750ml

Vinous 94+

Medium red. Pungent perfume of blood orange, licorice and herbs, lifted by a floral topnote. Tactile but backward, with terrific lift and perfume to the raspberry and crushed fruit flavors. The terrific rising finish displays great energy and a wonderfully light touch. Really stains the palate. With aeration, a deeper smoky, earthy tang and more adamant minerality emerged. A beauty, but lay it down for at least seven or eight years. [Stephen Tanzer, 01/03/2011]

Robert Parker 93

Compared to the RSV, this is earthier and more masculine on the nose with dark cherry, raspberry leaf, wild hedgerow and cold tea. The palate is medium-bodied, a little tart on the entry, very linear and strict with good acidity. Crisp red-berried fruits towards the finish, taut and uncompromising. This will need time, but will it ever develop the complexity of the 1ers? Drink 2016-2035. Tasted January 2009. [Neal Martin, 01/01/2009]

Anticipated maturity: 2016-2035