A stunning massive full-on and completely classic La Tâche nose that displays almost unbelievable complexity so with many different elements that it is impossible to even begin to describe them all; the primary components include ethereal and still fresh pinot fruit clove knock out spiciness anise hoisin soy and a trace of earth but these elements only hint at the sheer depth. The flavors are big rich refined classy penetrating and superbly powerful yet everything is in perfect balance and there is more than sufficient sève to balance off the still considerable tannins. The finish is intense pure and so long that it is haunting; I could literally still taste this wine days later after I had it because it had such a dramatic and emotional impact. In its youth this was one of the finest young Burgundies that I have ever been privileged to try and it only seems to get better with each passing year. For my taste this is getting close to arriving at its peak but it's not quite there though again I stress that this is to my taste and some may find it to already be in its sweet spot of maturation. In short this is absolutely brilliant. Note that while I have had relatively consistent notes I have had two bottles that were a bit astringent on the finish and not in the class of what I describe above.

Brilliant aromas of sweet cherry strawberry and spice herald ripe sweet fruit on the palate. It's concentrated and beginning to show some maturity as truffle and forest underbrush notes emerged over time. There's terrific balance between all the elements followed by an excellent finish.--La Tâche non-blind vertical. Best from 2010 through 2030. 2005 cases made. -BS

Tasted at the La Tâche vertical at The Square. The La Tâche 1990 sports a deep garnet core with brick rim. The palate is obviously from a relatively warm Burgundy vintage and delivers a surfeit of ripe, juicy and powerful red fruit infused with black truffle, leather and mint, with time a touch of rose petals. It gains more and more delineation with time, though never quite achieves the clinical precision of the 1991. The palate is full-bodied and for La Tâche, quite sinewy with layers of intense, rounded, svelte red berry fruit with just a touch of piquancy. It has an enormous structure and undeniable presence, yet this bottle could not hold a torch to either the 1991 or the 1999 La Tâche. Aubert de Villaine himself commented that he prefers the 1991 La Tâche to the 1990 and I concur. This is a great La Tâche but now with 25-years on the clock, one wonders whether it is past its peak? - Neal Martin