Domaine Armand Rousseau is one of the most famous and best domaines in Burgundy. Based in Gevrey-Chambertin, the estate is formed of just over 15 hectares, over half of which is Grand Cru.
This is one of Burgundy’s greatest domaines – in terms of history, vineyard holdings and quality of wine. The original Armand Rousseau was at the forefront of the first wave of domaine bottling in the 1930s. He was succeeded by his son Charles in 1959, shortly after they had bought a significant slice of the Clos St Jacques vineyard. Today Eric, grandson of Armand, is in charge of the vines and cellar, with the help of his daughter Cyrielle.
The domaine produces pale, finely structured wines of great elegance and stamina. The simple principle of old (but not ancient) vines and sensible yields dictates the Rousseau style. Sometimes the wines can appear light in their youth, but they nearly always take on weight as they age.
88-91 Points Allen Meadows
An agreeably fresh and distinctly earth nose displays hints of forest floor, red currant and a hint of game. I like the sense of vibrancy to the delicious, round and beautifully well-detailed flavors that exude a fine bead of minerality as well as very solid complexity on the lingering and well-balanced finish.
88-91 Points Robert Parker Wine Advocate
Bright medium red, a bit darker than the Gevrey-Chambertin Clos du Château. Darker, spicier and more complex on the nose, conveying a suggestion of Brochon power. A step up in energy and clarity as well, offering lovely density and cut to its raspberry and spice flavors. Finishes classically dry, firmly structured and long. As impressive an early showing as I can recall for this village wine chez Rousseau.