I have never been able to get a satisfactory read on the Domaine's '89s as they seem to be stuck in a sort of vinous time capsule; moreover, I have also had more than a little bottle variation as well, which doesn't help when trying to obtain a current read on the group's evolution. This particular bottle was, not surprisingly, quite floral but there is also a bit of a green streak on the nose and while almost all RC's have it to some degree, this is more prominent than usual and in my experience, relatively unusual for it to still be present at 18 years of age no matter the vintage. While the nose does display some slight development, it is still largely if not completely primary, dissolving into round, supple and well-concentrated flavors that drive toward a vibrant and mouth coating finish of solid if not sensational length. My short take is that the '89 remains somewhat awkward, as though it's trying to figure out what it's going to be when it grows up. My score is more benefit of the doubt because the potential that exists here has not been realized and in my view, save for satisfying one's curiosity, it would be a complete waste to open one now. A question mark still.

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