2016 Domaine Armand Rousseau, Chambertin Grand Cru 1x750ml

Vinous 94-96

(frost reduced the crop by two-thirds): Bright, dark red. Knockout nose combines black raspberry, crushed rock and a sauvage suggestion of fresh blood, with high notes of spices and violet emerging with air. Juicy on entry, then quite tight and folded in on itself in the middle palate, conveying a very tactile, dense impression. Slightly high-toned yet very primary flavors of red and darker fruits. One can see the frost effect here in the wine’s youthfully strict character and chewy tannins but the wine’s penetrating finishing minerality suggests that it will reward extended cellaring. [Stephen Tanzer, 01/02/2018]

Robert Parker 95

The 2016 Chambertin Grand Cru, which was two-thirds impacted by the frost, has an elegant bouquet, not powerful but charming, with pure red berry fruit, orange blossom, cold stone and Earl Grey scents. The palate is very well balanced with a sappy entry, with good structured here and a fine line of acidity. It is not an extravagant or even regal Chambertin, but it is extremely well proportioned and there is a lovely tang of spice toward the long and tender finish. It is a wonderful Chambertin, although I suspect that it will ultimately have to bow to the superiority of the Clos-de-Beze. [Neal Martin, 12/01/2017]

Anticipated maturity: 2022-2050