1997 Richebourg
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Tasting notes
There is moderate secondary character to the ripe, spicy and attractively complex nose that displays none of the over ripeness that mar some '97s. The delicious, round and opulent flavors possess excellent richness and the underlying structure is now largely if not completely resolved, all wrapped in a beautifully long finish. This is genuinely an admirable effort in the context of the vintage but it doesn't have the sheer class, focus and fine detail of the best vintages. For my taste this has reached its prime window of drinkability though it should continue to hold at this level for at least another decade. In short, while not a great Méo Richebourg, this is certainly is a lovely wine by any standard. Consistent notes.
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Allen Meadows, Burghound
More reviews and scores
The ruby/purple-colored 1997 Richebourg has enthralling aromas of perfume, flowers, cherries, and blueberries. On the palate, it bursts with scrumptious layers of cherries, blackberries, and oak spices. A medium-bodied wine of outstanding breadth, detail, and refinement, it delivers enormous intellectual gratification. Projected maturity: now-2007+. Importers: Western US: Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant, Berkeley, CA; tel (510) 524-1524; Eastern US: Domaines et Saveurs Collection, Jeanne-Marie de Champs, French Fax: 011-33-3-80-22-58-25.
Healthy medium red. Raspberry, cherry, minerals, licorice and flowers on the nose. Quite fine and fresh in the mouth; light on its feet. Very good acidity. The longest but least evolved of these '97s, finishing with a sappy cherry flavor.