Domaine Jean Grivot Richebourg Grand Cru 2023

A solid effort for a challenging year. According to Jasper Morris MW, this vintage marked a turning point for the estate as they began to forge their own path. Before the influence of Guy Accad, an oenologist who advocated for dense and extracted styles, this '94 showed a promising maturity of fresh and dried fruits. The taste was characterized by a pleasing spice and a crisp freshness. while the back end was less tannic than the '95, it lacked the edge that made it stand out in blind tastings. The '95, on the other hand, has a brighter future ahead of it.

Sprawling estate, if not a grand chateau, is the perfect fit for this wine. Its full potential is still being realized after 25 years on the vine. The nose is remarkably tight, with earthy suggestions and soft suggestions of raspberries. The impression is brooding, with a strong earthy body and a lingering tea-like finish. The tannins are long and dry, with a sharp kick. A wine that is still growing and developing, with much to offer.

Bold and evolved wine with a long way to go, but with fantastic potential. The 94 is a standout, with a lively and energetic character. The 95 is a monolithic, heavy wine with little subtlety, lacking the fruit and nuance of its predecessor. The 94 is a top notch introduction to the Richebourg, and the 95 is a disappointment. The tier is 2nd lower, indicating a need for further refinement.