Domaine Armand Rousseau   Charmes Chambertin

1995 Charmes-Chambertin

By Domaine Armand Rousseau

1995 Charmes-Chambertin from Domaine Armand Rousseau, Burgundy, France

Within the pantheon of Burgundian wines, the 1995 vintage from Domaine Armand Rousseau has long been spoken of in hushed and reverent tones among connoisseurs and investors alike. It is a vintage that exemplifies the harmonious dance between the climatic adversity of this year and the unyielding expertise of one of the region's most celebrated producers.

 

Setting a Benchmark in an Unpredictable Year

The 1995 growing season in Burgundy was one marred by a fitful start, with spring frost lingering like an unwanted guest, threatening the tender buds. Yet it was these very challenges that set the stage for a harvest that showcased resilience turning into elegance. The 1995 Charmes-Chambertin from Domaine Armand Rousseau encapsulates this transformative journey from vine to bottle.

 

A Herald of Complexity and Finesse

With each swirl in the glass, this wine releases an intricate bouquet of ripe cherries and blackcurrants interlaced with an earthy underpinning — a testament to its time both on the vine and in the cellar. Tertiary flavours whisper of spices, tobacco, and a hint of game, which mingle seamlessly with the remaining fruit notes. The palate reveals a mature tannic structure that speaks to the patience required to achieve such composure; voluptuous yet refined – elements undeniably attributable to the heralded winemaking craft of Rousseau.

In an investment context, the 1995 Charmes-Chambertin from Domaine Armand Rousseau stands as one of the more seductive propositions. Its aging potential is underscored by its present condition — poised at an interesting crossroads between vigour and the grace of maturity.

 

In Vino Investment Veritas

The afterglow each sip leaves is imbued with not just tradition and excellence but with an understanding that certain vintages carry within them something inherently extraordinary. The 1995 Charmes-Chambertin is such a wine – complex, assured, and steadfastly captivating. For collectors and investors alike, this vintage remains one of quiet confidence; it is a bastion of Burgundy's tenacity in a challenging year, offering both drinking pleasure and investment merit as its narrative continues to unfold in bottle.

Current market price

£10,530.00

12x75cl

Highest score

88

POP score

1316.25

Scores and tasting notes

87-89

Aged in one year old oak casks, the dark-colored Charmes-Chambertin exhibits ripe cherry fruits and a touch of spiciness in the nose and an extremely elegant dark berry, chewy palate. Slightly more austere than other Rousseau Charmes I've tasted over the years, it is a medium-bodied, velvety-textured wine. This note is the result of tastings I did in Burgundy between January 7 and January 29. The wine was tasted from cask, not bottle. Pinot Noir, a fragile varietal, reacts poorly to fining, filtration, and careless bottling techniques, I recommend caution when considering buying a red burgundy based on cask samples. I called it as I tasted it, and hope the bottled wine reflects the quality of the samples I was provided. Importer: Frederick Wildman, New York, NY; tel. (212) 355-0700

Pierre Rovani - The Wine Advocate, 26 June 1997

Vintage performance