1971 Richebourg
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Tasting notes
This is the superior of two bottles of 1971 Richebourg Grand Cru encountered over the years. Remarkably deep in colour, that briefly questioned its authenticity, I am placated by the freshness and delineation on the nose, with scents of mulberry, tar and peat-like aromas commensurate with its age. The palate is structured with fine acidity. There is a subtle spicy undercurrent and perhaps it is a little rustic given the vineyard. Yet, the bottom line is that this Richebourg offers ample sensory pleasure if not the intellect you might hope for.
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Neal Martin
Neal Martin, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
This is the second time that I have encountered the 1971 Richebourg Grand Cru from Bouchard Père & Fils and this is perhaps a better bottle. It is remarkably deep in colur, perhaps worryingly so, but rest assured that the aromatics deliver plenty of freshness and delineation with scents of mulberry, tar and almost peat-like aromas. The palate is structured with fine acidity, a subtle spicy undercurrent, perhaps a little rustic...but the bottom line is that this is a pleasure to drink. After lambasting many of the La Romanée wines made by Bouchard during this period, it is nice to complement a fine Richebourg that after 44 years continues to give pleasure.
About the producer
Bouchard Père & Fils is one of Burgundy’s oldest and most established wine producers. Founded in 1731 by Michel Bouchard, it is the largest vineyard owner in the Côte d’Or with 130 hectares of vines.