Nestled in the heart of Gevrey-Chambertin, in the esteemed Côte de Nuits region of Burgundy, Domaine Armand Rousseau stands as a revered and highly acclaimed wine producer. With a rich history, extensive vineyard holdings, and a commitment to crafting exceptional wines, Armand Rousseau has solidified its position as one of Burgundy's most iconic and revered family-run domaines.
A Storied Heritage: From Gevrey-Chambertin's Historic Vineyards
The story of Armand Rousseau dates back to the 1930s when the original Armand Rousseau spearheaded the domaine's transition to bottling their wines. This move marked a significant milestone in Burgundy's winemaking landscape and set the stage for the legacy that continues to thrive today. Following in his father's footsteps, Charles Rousseau took the reins in 1959, acquiring a substantial portion of the coveted Clos Saint-Jacques vineyard.
Today, Eric Rousseau, the grandson of Armand, leads the domaine, overseeing both the vineyards and the cellar, with the invaluable assistance of his daughter, Cyrielle. The domaine boasts an impressive portfolio of vineyard holdings, including significant plots in renowned Grand Cru sites. With over 2.5 hectares in Le Chambertin, 1.4 hectares in Clos-de-Bèze, and additional parcels in Mazis-Chambertin, Ruchottes (Clos des Ruchottes), Charmes-Chambertin, and Clos de la Roche in Morey-Saint-Denis, Armand Rousseau showcases the diverse terroir of the region.
The traditional farming practices employed by Armand Rousseau prioritise meticulous vineyard management. Green harvesting is utilised when necessary to control yields, which typically range between 30 and 40 hectoliters per hectare. The vineyards are plowed, and the use of sprays is minimised. In the winery, the grapes undergo meticulous processing, with 90% of the fruit being destemmed. A small portion of whole bunches is included to lend structure and tannins to the wines. Fermentation takes place in open-topped stainless steel vats, with regular pumping over and punch-downs, at controlled temperatures below 31°C. After gentle pressing, the wines mature gracefully in barrels, with oak usage kept minimal to allow the expression of the terroir.
Character and Longevity: The Essence of Armand Rousseau Wines
Armand Rousseau's wines are a true reflection of Burgundian elegance and longevity. Old vines and careful winemaking techniques result in wines that embody purity and grace, showcasing aromas of red and black fruits. These wines are built to age gracefully, standing the test of time and allowing enthusiasts to experience the evolution of their complexity.
Market Recognition
The remarkable quality and reputation of Armand Rousseau's wines have led to significant recognition and demand in the market. Notably, the 2001 and 2016 vintages of the estate's grand cru Chambertin have reached all-time high trading prices. The 2001 vintage, in particular, has experienced a substantial increase in value since its release, with a full case of 12 bottles commanding an astounding market price of £56,000. Alongside these prized offerings, wines such as Clos de la Roche 2013, Chambertin Clos de Bèze 2000, Ruchottes-Chambertin Clos des Ruchottes 2004, and various vintages of Gevrey-Chambertin 'Les Cazetiers' have also garnered attention and trading activity.
Domaine Armand Rousseau stands as a beacon of excellence in the realm of Burgundy wines. With its unwavering commitment to quality, rich vineyard heritage, and craftsmanship passed down through generations, this iconic domaine continues to captivate wine enthusiasts and uphold its place at the pinnacle of Burgundy's winemaking heritage.
The Fine Wine Power 100 list
Compiled by Liv-ex, a leading online marketplace for fine wines, the Fine Wine Power 100 list is an annual ranking that showcases the most influential and powerful wine brands and producers in the global fine wine market.
Armand Rousseau's rise in rankings within the list is a testament to the domaine's growing prominence and market appeal. Over the years, Armand Rousseau has steadily climbed the ranks, and topped the list in 2019, reflecting the increasing demand and recognition for their exceptional Burgundy wines, with attributions over quality and consistency, market performance, collector and enthusiast recognition, etc.
Shop Armand Rousseau Wines Online in Hong Kong
Armand Rousseau's wines from Burgundy are highly sought after for their exceptional quality, longevity, and recognition in the market. Enjoy the ease and accessibility of browsing their portfolio, which includes their highly acclaimed Chambertin Grand Cru and other exceptional offerings. By embracing online wine platforms in Hong Kong, wine lovers can now easily access and purchase these iconic wines, further cementing Armand Rousseau's position as a leading producer in the world of fine wine.
