Domaine De La Romanee-Conti 1985 La Tache

The Domaine De La Romanee-Conti 1985 La Tache is a pinnacle of Burgundian excellence, showcasing the extraordinary potential of this legendary vineyard. With a mesmerizing garnet hue that glints in the light, it captivates the eye before even being tasted. Upon nosing, the wine reveals a symphony of aromas that dance delicately from the glass, offering notes of ripe red berries, exotic spices, and hints of forest floor. Each inhalation unveils new layers of complexity, drawing the taster deeper into its enigmatic allure. On the palate, it delivers an experience of unparalleled elegance and refinement. Silky-smooth tannins embrace the senses, while flavors of cherry, raspberry, and earthy undertones tantalize the taste buds. The wine evolves gracefully in the mouth, revealing its full spectrum of flavors with each sip. Its finish is enduring, leaving a lingering impression of finesse and sophistication that lingers long after the last drop is savored. The Domaine De La Romanee-Conti 1985 La Tache stands as a timeless testament to the mastery of winemaking and the enduring legacy of one of Burgundy's most revered estates.

Robert Parker - 91 Points

"Tasted at the La Tâche vertical at The Square. Having only encountered the La Tâche 1985 once from magnum, I was intrigued to see how it shows from bottle. To be honest, this did not live up to the billing and as far as anyone could tell (including Aubert de Villaine) there was nothing wrong with it. First, it looks far more mature than the aforementioned magnum from 2011. There are plenty of dried herbs and surprisingly (for such a precocious vintage) plenty of leafy red berry fruit that just lack the presence of the 1991 or the precision of the 1980. The palate is medium-bodied with a smooth texture. It is nicely balanced, but I was not the only one to remark on a lack of depth here, almost a predictable finish that does not seem to go anywhere despite allowing it to open in my glass. As a Burgundy 1985 it is satisfactory, but if I were paying the market price then I might defer. I wonder whether bottles are on the slippery slope and magnums holding up strong?"

Antonio Galloni - 94 Points

"I have had the good fortune of tasting the 1985 La Tâche Grand Cru a number of times over the years. This is an especially fine bottle. Intensely aromatic, the 1985 shows the gentle patina of age in its gracious, mid-weight personality and understated depth. Dried herbs, spice, rosemary, mint and coffee all lift from the glass, playing off of a core of black cherry/plum fruit effortlessly. The edges are starting to fray a bit, so I would not push my luck on cellaring the 1985 too much further. This is about as good as it gets for the 1985. Tasted at a private dinner."