1978 Romanee St Vivant
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Tasting notes
The 1978 Romanée-Saint-Vivant Grand Cru does not quite possess the freshness of the '78 La Tâche tasted alongside, but it develops nicely in the glass. Pressed roses and light raspberry scents open as hints of bay leaf emerge with time. There's fine delineation, though this is not the most vigorous red Burgundy you will meet. The palate is medium-bodied with a fine spine of acidity. It offers the elegance and grace you expect from this noble vineyard, although like other '78s, it is just beginning to dry out on the finish, suggesting that bottles ought to be opened in the not-too-distant future. Tasted at the 1978 Bouilland horizontal.
Critic scores
Average Score
Neal Martin
Allen Meadows, Burghound
More reviews and scores
Wow. This is almost too intense, with candied fruit and dried lemon rind, and hints of honeyed dark fruits. Spicy too. It’s full-bodied, with round tannins and a full-throttle finish. Still just a baby. Really powerful.
Domaine de la Romanée-Conti’s 1978 Romanée St. Vivant was incredibly beautiful. Still fresh, vibrant and layered, it continued to evolve in the glass, revealing notable detail in its sweet fruit, spices and menthol.
About the producer
Domaine de la Romanée-Conti or simply “DRC” is without doubt the most famous domaine in Burgundy and one of the most famous producers on earth. The Grand Cru vineyard from which it takes its name produces the world’s most expensive wine by a long margin.