Liger-Belair signified to me that his 2006 Richebourg was shut down but if so then when it opens up watch out! What I experienced was a plethora of red and black berries and spices; a black raspberry and cherry liqueur-like impression on a viscous rich palate but with tart fruit skin and salt adding invigoration; and a finish that opened up profound carnal and mineral vistas and left my palate with the impression it was glowing. Just over 14% alcohol is not in the least noticeable here. Firmly and seamlessly structured energizing and penetrating this monument to the vintage (even if it seems as though it dropped in from a different one) ought to be put away for half a dozen years at least and should perform well for at least twice that long. For me this clearly eclipses the already outstanding 2005 which is a tribute to the rapid progress that this young vigneron has made. There are eight barrels (circa 200 cases) of it incidentally by Burgundian standards not really rare.

This too is very reserved but at the same time notably ripe and highly complex as the violet-infused black and blue berry fruit aromas pick up hints of soy clove anise and hoisin that continue onto the rich and full-bodied flavors that sacrifice no sense of precision or definition on the deep powerful and classy finish. This is a focused powerful and austere wine but by no means a monster though it will require at least a decade to be at its best.