Domaine Armand Rousseau   Gevrey Chambertin 1er Cru Clos Saint Jacques

2004 Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Clos-Saint-Jacques

By Domaine Armand Rousseau

2004 Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Clos-Saint-Jacques from Domaine Armand Rousseau, Burgundy, France

In the vast tapestry of Burgundian excellence, the 2004 vintages stand out as triumphs of vignerons' resilience over challenging climatic conditions. It was a year that carved its signature through adversity; a cooler summer was bookended by a serendipitous September, which nurtured the grapes into graceful maturity. Emblematic of this transition is the 2004 Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Clos-Saint-Jacques from Domaine Armand Rousseau.

 

The Distinctive Poise of 2004: A Vintage to Delight the Connoisseur

Having closely observed and tasted the arc of vintages from this venerable domaine, it is discernible that the 2004 carries a distinctive poise. The sacred terroir of Clos-Saint-Jacques has endowed this wine with a sinewy strength, an elegant tension created by the contrast between its poised acidity and the supple tannins.

The bouquet is a delightful interplay of red fruits and underbrush, with an enchanting hint of wet earth and a whiff of smoked spices adding to its sophisticated complexity. This alluring complexity persists on the palate where one finds it harmoniously balanced with a long, lingering finish that incessantly whispers tales of its birthplace, each sip revealing another chapter in its story.

 

Investment Merits of Domaine Armand Rousseau's Craftsmanship

For fine wine investors, each vintage from Domaine Armand Rousseau demands scrutiny for its individuality. The 2004 Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Clos-Saint-Jacques articulates that individuality boldly. A refined ensemble of elegance and longevity, this vintage seems to poetically defy the initial apprehensions faced by that year’s varying weather patterns.

Oenophiles investing in this wine will find their patience rewarded as it continues its ascent towards peak maturity. The pronounced structure and captivating aromatics suggest that its trajectory will be one of graceful aging, making it an astute addition to any investment portfolio committed to the finest expressions of Burgundy's heritage.

In conclusion, the unique narrative woven by the 2004 vintage at Domaine Armand Rousseau is imbibed within every bottle of their Clos-Saint-Jacques. Its evolution captures the essence of Gevrey-Chambertin’s power and finesse—making it an investment-worthy treasure and a must-have for collectors entranced by the lore of viticultural alchemy.

Market price (GBP)

£13,860.00

12x75cl

Highest score

90

POP score

1386

Scores and tasting notes

90

It has been some years since I last tasted the 2004 Gevrey Chambertin 1er Cru Clos Saint Jacques from Armand Rousseau. Tasted blind, I instantly nailed the vintage because of that unmistakable stemmy note on the nose - green bell pepper. Underneath that is a light floral scent with bay leaf and broom. The palate is brittle in texture with chalky tannin, hints of licorice surfacing toward the linear, conservative finish that to be honest, was completely out-performed by the 1993 Clos Saint Jacques on this occasion. It's not at all bad for 2004, but there are better vintages out there.

Neal Martin - The Wine Advocate, 28 June 2015

Vintage performance