1997 Chambertin Clos-de-Beze Grand Cru
By Domaine Armand Rousseau
1997 Chambertin Clos-de-Beze Grand Cru from Domaine Armand Rousseau
An enchanting offering, the 1997 Chambertin Clos-de-Beze Grand Cru from Domaine Armand Rousseau beckons to connoisseurs and investors alike as an exemplar of Burgundy's climatic idiosyncrasies. This particular year, marked by a slightly precocious season, saw the fortitude and skill of Domaine Armand Rousseau navigating the vagaries of nature to produce a wine that speaks not only of its distinguished origin but also of the distinct conditions that shaped its very essence.
Nurtured Brilliance: The 1997 Vintage Unfolds
The 1997 vintage in Burgundy was characterised by a relatively temperate winter followed by an early bud break, which set the stage for a favourable albeit challenging growing season. This prompt onset demanded vigilance to ensure the ensuing crop displayed optimal balance. The wines fashioned from this period tend to possess earlier maturity, making them particularly accessible and charming in their youth, with a precocious softness that can beguile the patient collector.
Distinguished Provenance with Investment Acumen
Within its aromatic profile, the 1997 Chambertin Clos-de-Beze Grand Cru proffers an intricate tapestry of dark cherry and ripe currants interwoven with ethereal hints of earth and spice – an homage to the rich terroir of Clos-de-Beze. The palate follows in this symphony, a decadent yet perfectly structured array of flavours that unfurl with elegance and longevity. A testament to its pedigree, it embodies both an alluring drinking experience and solid potential for fine wine investment growth.
The stature of Domaine Armand Rousseau within Burgundy's esteemed cadre of vintners need not be overstated; their prowess elevates this 1997 vintage into a realm where discerning enthusiasts and astute investors find common ground. As time progresses, bottles such as this become emblematic milestones within personal collections, encapsulating both memory and market with equanimity.
Summary: A Study in Graceful Maturity
Reflecting upon the journey from vineyard to glass, the 1997 Chambertin Clos-de-Beze Grand Cru stands out as one of Burgundy's charismatic yet subtlety complex examples, having evolved into a state that appeals to both sensory appreciation and financial consideration. Intricacies inherent to this high-calibre wine continue to fascinate palates and portfolios well into their mature phase—an investment in Domaine Armand Rousseau’s craftsmanship is, undoubtedly, an investment in vinous finesse that transcends mere vintage variations.
Market price (USD)
$35,690.00
12x75cl
Highest score
92
POP score
2435.83
Scores and tasting notes
The medium-to-dark ruby-colored 1997 Chambertin Clos de Beze displays ethereal black fruit aromas. It has jammy fig, tar, licorice, grilled stones, bacon, earth, and spicy oak flavors in its medium-to-full-bodied character. This hedonistic, muscular, well-delineated, and intricate wine should be consumed over the next 10 years. Importer: Frederick Wildman & Sons, New York, NY; tel. (212) 355-0700.
Pierre Rovani - The Wine Advocate, 29 October 1999