The vibrant, pure, spicy, distinctly floral and unusually high-toned nose introduces big, powerful and concentrated flavors that possess almost painful intensity. The mid-palate brims with an abundance of palate staining extract along with plenty of minerality yet the robust larger-scaled flavors remain regal, almost aloof, and quite reserved on the hugely long finish that seems to go on without end. The focus is unbelievable and while it's perhaps contradictory to speak of 'subtle power', one can sense the vibrancy and depths of reserve that are still only hinted at now even 23 years after the vintage. As seductive as the nose is, and as awe-inspiring as the flavors are, the beautiful balance and sheer length are what sets this apart from most vintages, indeed I could still taste it the next day and it indisputably possesses the best persistence of any wine in the tasting. And, difficult as it may be to believe, I'm beginning to think that the '99 RC is a worthy successor to the otherworldly '45, which is the greatest wine I have ever been blessed to enjoy. I can offer no higher praise. Tasted mutliple times over the years and it only seems to get better and better.

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