Domaine Armand Rousseau Clos de la Roche Grand Cru 1999 750ml

This is a wine that I’ve been privileged to have many times over the years and one that appears to have finally arrived at its apogee with its exceptionally pretty, even perfumed, nose of various red berries, spice and soft earth and leather nuances. There is excellent size and weight to the seductively rich but overtly powerful big-bodied flavors that deliver outstanding length where the only minor nit is a touch of warmth. For my preference, this has arrived at its peak though I hasten to point out that it should hold for several more decades without any problem. In a word, impressive.

• Country: France
• Region: Burgundy
• Appellation: Cote De Nuits
• Sub Appellation: Clos De La Roche
• Size: 750ml
• Color: Red
• Alcohol by Vol: 13.0%

Varietal

Pinot Noir

Regularly described as being the grape varietal responsible for producing the world’s most romantic wines, Pinot Noir has long been associated with elegance and a broad range of flavors The name means ‘black pine’ in French, and this is due to the fact that the fruit of this particular varietal is especially dark in color, and hangs in a conical shape, like that of a pine cone. Despite being grown today in almost every wine producing country, Pinot Noir is a notoriously difficult grape variety to cultivate. This is because it is especially susceptible to various forms of mold and mildew, and thrives best in steady, cooler climates. However, the quality of the fruit has ensured that wineries and vintners have persevered with the varietal, and new technologies and methods have overcome many of the problems it presents. Alongside this, the wide popularity and enthusiasm for this grape has ensured it will remain a firm favorite amongst wine drinkers for many years to come.