Montrachet, Domaine de la Romanée Conti 1996

One of the greatest wines of the incredible 1996 vintage with knockout aromas of white flowers, green apples and a touch of oak spice all framed by an intense minerality followed by discreet, understated flavors that are so focused that they're entirely crystalline in nature. This just oozes class and breed and the balance is perfect with acidity that exquisitely highlights each nuance yet remains in the background as a supporting, rather than a dominating, element. Seamless from the explosive fruit to the finish that persists literally for minutes. This is an emotionally compelling wine and one cannot drink it and remain indifferent. A reference standard expression of the terroir and incontestably one of the finest wines of this great vintage. Beg, borrow or steal but don't miss this wine. Note: to those who are looking for the usual frank opulence of the DRC style, it simply isn't present in this wine, at least not yet Rather, this is more Chevalier than Montrachet just now and this is one that may very well see its 50th birthday entirely intact. Multiple and consistent notes.