Critic Notes
Tasted at the La Tâche vertical at The Square. It was initially difficult to choose between the 1999 and 2002 La Tâche, but in the end the former just ascended to the stratosphere, while the latter simply cruised, albeit at a very high altitude. Now at 13 years of age, there is just a slight bricking on the rim. It feels a little more forward than the 1999–a stylish and personality-driven bouquet with predominantly red berry fruit interlaced with warm bricks and undergrowth (much more so of the latter compared to the 1999). The palate is beautifully balanced with exquisite tannin, perfect acidity and an effortless, you might say easygoing personality. That is deceptive because it is a complex and utterly harmonious La Tâche that is the epitome of elegance. Unlike the 1999, I would broach this now with an hour's decanting. Wonderful. eRobertParker.com.April, 2015
Score: 97-/100Neal Martin
This is still rather reserved though determined swirling reveals a nose that is exceptionally fine and pure with fantastic aromatic detail and an almost diaphanous transparency of expression that reveals all of the kaleidoscopic La Tâche spice box nose, including anise, clove, plums, high-toned black cherry, crushed red raspberry and more. The broad, expansive and powerful flavors are still on the strict side with a mid-palate of massive depth yet the finish is round, generous, sappy and superbly complex culminating in a finish that lasts for minutes. Despite the aromatic fireworks and opulent character, there is an underlying tenderness here that suggests that this will be approachable relatively early but the balance is so fine that this should easily age for 30 years, perhaps longer. Tasted twice recently with consistent notes. Allen Meadows, Burghound May29,2008
Score: 96-/100Allen Meadows, Burghound
Limpid garnet. Absolutely stunning aromas of pure cherry, strawberry and raspberry mark this La Tâche. It's vibrant, balanced and very elegant, with ripe fruit and tannins and a long finish. Very promising future.--La Tâche non-blind vertical. Best from 2020 through 2040. Bruce Sanderson, Wine Spectator 2006
Score: 96-/100Wine Spectator
Soy sauce, candied blood oranges, and dark cherries make up the nose of the outstanding 2002 La Tache. Extremely elegant and pure, this light to medium-bodied wine displays a superb satiny texture and a broad blackberry, black cherry, spice, and mineral-flavored character. It boasts a refined, noble personality with an exceedingly long, supple finish. The qualitative and ripeness differences between this wine and the Richebourg is striking as well as confounding. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2019. Pierre Rovani, Wine Advocate # 153
Score: 93-/100The Wine Advocate
