The 1990 Domaine Armand Rousseau Chambertin is a Pinot Noir of extraordinary complexity and richness, hailing from the esteemed Cote de Nuits sub-region of Burgundy, France. This stunning vintage has garnered high praise from top wine reviewers, with Wine Spectator noting its satiny texture and toasted, gamy violet and berry aromas. The wine is a delightful enigma, solid yet enigmatic, its potential greatness shrouded in anticipation.
Upon tasting, Vinous describes the 1990 Chambertin Grand Cru as a wine of unparalleled beauty, with the allure of pure red cherries, crushed stone, and fern. With time, these give way to fresh strawberry notes, the warmth of the flavor never compromising the terroir. The palate is a deluge of red fruit, laced with exotic Chinese 5-spice and clove. It is decadent but not arrogant, supremely confident in its finesse and the crescendo of the finish is a spectacular spectacle of candied delight.
Burghound appreciates the evidence of maturity in the bricking at the rim of the glass, and the stunning complexity of the aroma – a heady mix of spice, leather, earth, and ripe secondary fruit. The medium-weight flavors are forward, not dense, but deliver exceptional length on the gorgeously textured and well-balanced finale.
John Gilman from View From The Cellar highlights the wine's deep bouquet, with notes of baked plums, cherries, fresh nutmeg, dark chocolate, and a touch of prune. The palate is opulent and broad, with impressive refinement and excellent focus.
In sum, this vintage from Domaine Armand Rousseau is a masterclass in the potential richness and complexity of Pinot Noir. It is a wine to be savored, appreciated and remembered – a true jewel from the heart of Burgundy's Chambertin.