Discovering the 2022 Vintage: Beauty in Abundance

You won't believe the excitement around the 2022 wines from Domaine de la Romanée-Conti! I had a taste, and wow, the richness is unforgettable!

The Magic of the 2022 Vintage

When it comes to wine, few names evoke as much reverence as Domaine de la Romanée-Conti. The 2022 vintage has just been released, and let me tell you, it’s a treasure trove of flavors that speak volumes about its unique terroir. I recently attended a tasting event in London where I had the privilege of sipping these remarkable wines for the first time. As I savored each drop, I couldn’t help but feel a connection to the land and its rich history.

A Year of Extremes

As explained by co-director Perrine Fenal during the tasting, 2022 was marked by an abundance of everything—sunshine, grapes, and even barrels! Can you imagine? The conditions were ripe for an exceptional yield, but not without challenges. A scorching summer followed by torrential rains just when they were needed most created ideal conditions for ripening.

She described it perfectly: "It was a stroke of luck: rain at the perfect moment." This serendipity led to grapes that were bursting with flavor yet strikingly balanced.

Tasting Notes That Take You on a Journey

Each sip reveals layers of complexity. Bertrand de Villaine noted that despite the maturity of these wines, they retain a freshness that is hard to find in such rich vintages. You can almost feel the essence of the soil with every taste—there’s a minerality and depth that speaks to both nature‘s bounty and meticulous craftsmanship.

Michael Schuster, a respected wine expert, pointed out that while these wines may not have the fleshiness of some previous vintages like 2020, they compensate with extraordinary sweetness and clarity. It’s this balance between richness and elegance that makes them truly exceptional.

A Vintage to Remember

Reflecting on my experience at this tasting event brought me immense joy. To think about how DRC turned what could have been overwhelming abundance into an extraordinary vintage is nothing short of inspiring. The contrast with 2021—one of their smallest harvests—makes 2022 feel like a celebration after adversity.

With over 26,700 bottles produced from La Tâche alone compared to fewer than 7,000 in 2021, this vintage promises not only beauty but also availability for those who appreciate fine wine.

FAQ About Domaine de la Romanée-Conti’s 2022 Vintage

What makes the 2022 vintage unique?

The unique weather conditions—an early budburst followed by crucial rains—allowed for perfectly ripe grapes without disease.

How does it compare to previous vintages?

While richer vintages like 2020 are fleshy, 2022 offers sweetness and clear tannins with minerality that shows off its terroir beautifully.

Where can I buy these wines?

Look for them through reputable wine merchants or directly through DRC’s exclusive agents like Corney & Barrow.

Conclusion: An Invitation to Explore

In conclusion, if you find yourself curious about wine or eager to expand your palate, exploring Domaine de la Romanée-Conti’s latest offerings should be at the top of your list. Each bottle captures not just grapes but stories—the very essence of Burgundy’s esteemed vineyards.

Photo by Travis Yewell on Unsplash