2018 Charmes-Chambertin
By Domaine Armand Rousseau
2018 Charmes-Chambertin from Domaine Armand Rousseau, Burgundy
The esteemed 2018 vintage of Charmes-Chambertin from Domaine Armand Rousseau signifies a crowning achievement for the venerable estate, encapsulating the exemplary characteristics that enthusiasts of this coveted marque have grown to revere. My involvement with this legendary domaine spans decades, each vintage offering a singular narrative in the bouquet of Burgundy's finest.
Sublime Vintage, Serendipitous Conditions
The 2018 vintage in Burgundy was one defined by serendipity - optimal climatic conditions paved the way for wines that deliver exceptional balance and structure. The Charmes-Chambertin vineyard, cradled in the heart of Gevrey-Chambertin, benefited immensely, presenting a wine teeming with intricate layers of complexity and finesse.
This particular vintage imbues the drinker with an experiential tapestry of ripe red fruits, a commonplace theme dexterously woven with sophisticated nuances rarely achieved in such concordance. Aromas of cherries and blackcurrants meld harmoniously with an earthy undertone, setting the stage for a resplendent performance on the palate.
A Taste of Terroir
On sipping the 2018 Charmes-Chambertin from Domaine Armand Rousseau, one is met with a stunning array of flavours - rich yet impeccably poised. The terroir speaks eloquently, exhibiting mineral streaks synonymous with this timeless terroir. Tannins are silk-wrapped, integrating seamlessly to point towards remarkable ageability.
The beauty of this offering extends beyond its gustatory merit; it stands as a prudent acquisition for connoisseurs considering investment. Reputed for their majestic ageing potential, the Charmes-Chambertin from Rousseau consistently escalate in desirability amongst collectors and investors alike.
In conclusion, the 2018 offering from Domaine Armand Rousseau is not merely a beverage; it is an indulgent narrative woven from the very vines of Charmes-Chambertin. It stands poised to grace cellars and satisfy palates for decades to come while remaining a linchpin for discerning investors seeking to diversify their portfolios with finery that is Burgundy wine's epitome. This vintage elevates expectation and fulfilment in equal measure; a treasure trove sculpted by nature's benevolence and man's mastery.
Market price (GBP)
£7,560.00
12x75cl
Highest score
92
POP score
630
Scores and tasting notes
The 2018 Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru bursts from the glass with a comparatively fruit-driven bouquet of cassis, cherries, wild berries and licorice. On the palate, it's full-bodied, fleshy and gourmand, with a ripe and enveloping core that almost entirely conceals its structuring tannins and a rich, expansive finish. This is one of the more front-loaded wines in the cellar, and it should have early appeal.
William Kelley - The Wine Advocate, 9 January 2020