Domaine Armand Rousseau

1996 Mazis Chambertin Grand Cru

By Domaine Armand Rousseau

1996 Mazis Chambertin Grand Cru from Domaine Armand Rousseau, Burgundy, France

The stoically impressive 1996 Mazis Chambertin Grand Cru from the venerable Domaine Armand Rousseau epitomises the harmonious balance between opulent fruit and quintessential Burgundian terroir. A vintage that spoke of the region's tenacity amidst climatic adversity, 1996 bestowed upon Burgundy collectors a fascinating combination of concentration and vivacity that has become a hallmark of this harvest.

Investing in the Pinnacle of Burgundy's Craftsmanship

The convergence of conscientious viticulture and winemaking acumen at Domaine Armand Rousseau reached an apogee in the 1996 vintage. Cult investors eyeing blue-chip Burgundies will find that this vintage stands amongst the archetype investments, with profound complexity and a scaffolding of tannins promising extended cellar potential.

A Vintage Painted in Bold Strokes

An autumnal reprieve saved the 1996 harvest after a challenging growing season throughout Burgundy. This resulted in a vintage articulated by bright acid structures and resolute tannins—a tapestry woven with dark cherries, a mélange of bramble fruit and a hint of sous-bois that invigorates the sensorium with each sip. The longevity of this wine is showcased in its persistent evolution in the glass, laying bare layers of aromatic intrigue juxtaposed against a backdrop of minerality characteristic of the grand terroirs.

Indeed, the 1996 Mazis Chambertin Grand Cru encapsulates the pristine expression one anticipates from such esteemed production. Its prolonged finish, abundant with spice and earthy undertones, resonates with an elegance only high pedigree wines from Domaine Armand Rousseau can deliver.

Twenty-seven years post-vintage, the 1996 Mazis Chambertin Grand Cru remains an exalted example of Domaine Armand Rousseau's mastery over their parcels. Its intricate composition not only speaks to wine aficionados but also to discerning investors looking to enrich their portfolios with a wine that encapsulates a momentous year in Burgundian winemaking history.

Market price (GBP)

£5,150.00

12x75cl

Highest score

95 POP score

343.33

Scores and tasting notes

94-96

This wine reveals a dark ruby color and mouth-watering aromas of smoked pork, bacon, juicy blackberries, road tar, raw meat, and a hint of eucalyptus. This block-buster is big, broad, dense, concentrated and complete. It is oily textured, full-bodied, and offers sublime layers of candied black raspberries, blueberries, violets, lilies, fresh herbs, Asian spices, leather, stones, smoke, and toast. This formidably structured and profound wine demands patience. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2018. Bravo! As far as the 1996 vintage is concerned, Rousseau's comments were bluntly candid - "the North wind is concentration. It saves a harvest, prevents rot, concentrates color and sugar, concentrates everything we want. 1996 is better than 1990, it may be too early to say, but there, I said it." With that, Rousseau picked up one of the tastevins hanging on the wall (these are the small, wide, shallow, and traditional silver utensils used for tasting. As far as I know he is the only Burgundian who continues to use them on a regular basis), and the tasting began. Importer: Frederick Wildman & Sons, New York, NY; tel (212) 355-0700.

Pierre Rovani - The Wine Advocate, 30 August 1998

87-88

This ruby-colored wine displays a tight nose of kirsch, black cherries, and rosemary, followed by a medium-to-full-bodied, masculine, structured, and unyielding personality. Flavors of blackberries, minerals, and stones are found in this firm, velvety-textured, and persistent wine. Anticipated maturity: 1999-2006. As far as the 1996 vintage is concerned, Rousseau's comments were bluntly candid - "the North wind is concentration. It saves a harvest, prevents rot, concentrates color and sugar, concentrates everything we want. 1996 is better than 1990, it may be too early to say, but there, I said it." With that, Rousseau picked up one of the tastevins hanging on the wall (these are the small, wide, shallow, and traditional silver utensils used for tasting. As far as I know he is the only Burgundian who continues to use them on a regular basis), and the tasting began. Importer: Frederick Wildman & Sons, New York, NY; tel (212) 355-0700.