Ben_W:
As promised TN for 2008 DRC RSV — my first DRC.
The finish is exceptionally long and nuanced, unfolding in subtle, evolving waves that reward focused attention. Aromatically and on the palate, a slightly spicy profile leads, with hints of anise and earth taking precedence over the red fruit. There’s a graceful layering, but it requires time and patience to fully reveal itself.
With approximately 2.5 hours of slow oxygenation, the wine transformed markedly. By the third small pour, it began to show its true character—suddenly expressive and expansive. Herbal tea, spice, and possibly coffee notes emerged with intensity. The spice carried through the finish, which remained persistent and impressively long.
Texturally, there’s a faint dustiness, a touch of wood, and a notable but integrated tannic structure. As it continued to evolve, it did eventually begin to close down around the five-hour mark, showing more tannin and a slightly chewy edge. A touch of dark fruit became more apparent at this stage.
This is an outstanding wine with a hauntingly long finish and remarkable evolution in the glass. While it didn’t deliver an epiphany, it showcased undeniable pedigree. At times it had my wallet worried that I’d be hooked, it didn’t quite enchant me, but I can see what the fuss is about.
I look forward to -infrequently- drinking DRC again over my wine lifetime.
I’ve had many DRCs over several decades, and the best have always been the really mature ones (1982, 1980, 1978, 1971, 1962 …). Young they might be impressive, but mature they are (often, not always) singing …