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
A discreet application of wood can be found on the very, very fresh nose of various red berries and earth nuances. The lilting, refined and delicious lighter weight flavors conclude in a saline-inflected, refreshing and lightly structured finale. This should drink well young.
89-91 Points Jasper Morris
Fine fresh mid purple, vibrant sweet raspberry fruit, superbly balanced, with a freshness to match the ripeness, fine light acidity. I suspect the Rousseau team have got these vineyards into the shape that suits them by now