Domaine de la Romanée-Conti Romanee Saint Vivant 2002

Highly aromatic, indeed almost kaleidoscopic in the sheer breadth of aromas but it's the spice that is so remarkable. The flavours are quite fine with beautiful detail and a drop-dead gorgeous velvety texture that is soft in the middle yet quite firm on the terrifically long finish. The overall character here is rather discreet and understated and while there is plenty of character, it's clear that this is built along the lines of elegance and finesse rather than the robust power and punch of the Grands Echézeaux. Moreover, it has put on weight since it was bottled and while it's not quite as good as the '01, it's not far off.