2021 Domaine de la Romanee-Conti La Tache Monopole Grand Cru

Winery Domaine de la Romanée-Conti Domaine de la Romanée-Conti is among the absolute world leaders in Burgundy and works exclusively with its own vineyards in the Côte de Nuits. The estate is known for its extremely low yields, meticulous working methods, and a style focused on terroir expression, balance, and a very long aging curve. La Tâche is a monopoly of the estate and is considered the most powerful and structured wine in the range, with a distinct ability to transcend challenging vintages. More information about this winery can be found under the Winery tab. Region, climate and location La Tâche is located in Vosne-Romanée, in the heart of the Côte de Nuits. The vineyard covers approximately six hectares, making it considerably larger than Romanée-Conti, offering additional opportunities for selection in challenging years. The 2021 vintage was significantly impacted by heavy spring frosts and low yields. Despite these conditions, the estate managed to produce a wine with remarkable freshness, aromatic purity, and a style reminiscent of classic Burgundy, albeit with a modern precision. Within the Domaine de la Romanée-Conti portfolio, La Tâche represents the most structured and broad-shouldered expression. In 2021, the wine is less exuberant than in warmer years, but rather distinctly refined, with a strong focus on tension, minerality, and length. Vineyards and grape varieties 100% Pinot Noir from the monopoly vineyard La Tâche. Yields were extremely low in 2021, averaging around 8.6 hl/ha. Harvest took place between September 24th and 27th. The size of the vineyard allowed for very strict selection, which contributed to the high quality despite the difficult growing season. Total production was limited to approximately 579 cases. Harvest, vinification and maturation After a rigorous sorting process, the grapes were fermented entirely as whole bunches. Maturation took place in new oak barrels, with bottling in April 2023. The long, cool aging period resulted in full physiological ripeness without high alcohol levels. The low yields translate into concentration and texture, without the wine losing its finesse. Color, smell and taste The wine displays a bright ruby red color. Dark berries and plums emerge on the nose, followed by Asian spices, rose petals, and notes of forest floor and conifers. William Kelley of The Wine Advocate emphasizes the aromatic complexity and the distinct yet restrained influence of new oak. On the palate, La Tâche 2021 is full and layered, with a broad, textured attack and a firm yet refined tannic structure. The acidity is perfectly integrated, creating tension and precision. Neal Martin of Vinous describes the wine as exceptionally harmonious, with a transparent structure, pronounced minerality, and a very long, energetic finish that shows more length than Richebourg from the same vintage. Development and drinking window Several drinking windows are suggested for this vintage. William Kelley of The Wine Advocate (97+ points) recommends a drinking window of 2031 to 2061. Neal Martin of Vinous (97 points) suggests a window of 2030 to 2060, while previous barrel reviews even point to a potential of up to 2055. While the wine is already remarkably harmonious, further bottle aging will be essential for it to fully develop. Summary of professional reviews William Kelley of The Wine Advocate awarded La Tâche 2021 97+ points, praising its combination of power, aromatic complexity, and structure. Neal Martin of Vinous awarded it 97 points, highlighting its exceptional harmony, transparency, and length, with a finish that clearly distinguishes itself within the vintage. These high scores confirm La Tâche 2021 as one of the most successful wines from a challenging Burgundy year. The full review texts can be found in the Professional Reviews tab. If available, you'll find the official fact sheet and additional information about this fine wine in the "Attachments" tab. We'll automatically s