2013 Christophe Roumier, Ruchottes-Chambertin Grand Cru, Ruchottes Chambertin 1x750ml

Robert Parker 91

Tasted blind at the Burgfest tasting in Beaune, the 2013 Ruchottes-Chambertin Grand Cru from Christophe Roumier has a simpler bouquet than its peers: a little reduced to contend with, later sea spray and iodine scents infusing the tightly wound brambly red fruit underneath. The palate is medium-bodied with chewy tannin, moderate acidity, quite dense though it feels a little “pushed” at the moment, has not quite settled into its groove. I would hope to see more nuance develop in bottle as it was outclassed by Mugneret-Gibourg’s own 2013 Ruchottes-Chambertin here. Tasted September 2016. [28/09/2017]

Anticipated maturity: 2019-2036

Vinous 93+

Healthy full red. Musky, reticent nose offers lovely rose petal lift and sexy soil tones, with fruit in the background today. Calmer and less expressive than the wilder Charmes but boasts excellent floral energy and refinement–and lovely tension–in the mouth. Quite backward and tight today but already shows terrific class, punch and length. Finishes with firm tannins, a saline impression of extract and noteworthy mineral drive. "The 2013s say ‘don’t drink me now,’" said Roumier at this point in our tasting. [Stephen Tanzer, 03/01/2016]

Anticipated maturity: 2022-2035