top of page

Domaine Armand Rousseau

Burgundy

Address:

1 Rue de l'Aumônerie, 21220 Gevrey-Chambertin, France

Website: 

Winemaker:

First Vintage:

Cyrille Rousseau

1929

Accepts Visitors:

Special Request

PRESTIGE

average rating is 5 out of 5

5

Summary

Domaine Armand Rousseau is among the most revered and iconic producers in the Burgundy region of France, particularly famous for crafting some of the world's most exquisite and sought-after Pinot Noirs. The winery is situated in the village of Gevrey-Chambertin, which lies in the heart of the Côte de Nuits, an area renowned for producing robust and long-lived red wines.

History and Heritage:
Established in the early 20th century by Armand Rousseau, the eponymous estate has a rich history steeped in tradition and winemaking excellence. Armand began with a small parcel of land and a profound passion for viticulture, rapidly earning a reputation for quality through his dedication to showcasing the unique terroir of his vineyards. The domaine is now in the hands of the third generation, with Eric Rousseau at the helm, ensuring the family's legacy continues through meticulous cultivation and winemaking practices.

Vineyards and Terroir:
The Domaine spans approximately 15 hectares (roughly 37 acres), with ownership of parcels in multiple prestigious Grand Cru vineyards, including Chambertin, Chambertin-Clos de Bèze, and Ruchottes-Chambertin, along with Premier Cru plots in Clos Saint-Jacques and Lavaux Saint-Jacques. The terroir is characterized by a combination of limestone and clay soils, which provide excellent drainage and contribute to the complexity and minerality of the wines. The vines are nurtured under a philosophy that prioritizes low yields and environmental harmony, fostering a deep respect for the land and the expression of each unique vineyard site.

Winemaking Philosophies:
At Domaine Armand Rousseau, there is a strong belief in minimal intervention. The winemaking process is a blend of time-honored techniques and subtle modern innovations, always with the goal of producing wines that articulate the nuances of their terroir. The grapes are handpicked at optimum ripeness to ensure the highest quality, then meticulously sorted to select the best fruit.

Fermentation takes place in open wooden vats to maximize the contact between the juice and its skins, which imparts color, tannins, and complexity. Aging occurs in French oak barrels, with the proportion of new wood carefully chosen to complement, not dominate, the delicate Pinot Noir. The wines are then bottled with minimal filtration to preserve their integrity and distinctive character.

Tasting Profile:
The wines of Domaine Armand Rousseau are renowned for their elegance, finesse, and aromatic purity. On the nose, they often exhibit a spectrum of aromas ranging from ripe red fruits, such as cherries and strawberries, to more complex notes of earth, truffle, and spices as they age. The palate is a harmonious balance of power and delicacy, with a silky texture, precise structure, and a persistent, nuanced finish that is the hallmark of truly great Burgundy.

Visiting Domaine Armand Rousseau:
For wine enthusiasts and collectors, a visit to Domaine Armand Rousseau is a pilgrimage to one of the pinnacles of Burgundian winemaking. Visitors may be able to schedule private tours and tastings, where they can experience firsthand the storied cellars and taste the exceptional vintages. These visits are often by appointment only and provide an intimate glimpse into the artistry behind some of the most coveted wines in the world.

In summary, Domaine Armand Rousseau stands as a testament to the heights that Burgundian Pinot Noir can achieve, offering a unique combination of history, passion, and terroir-driven winemaking that continues to enchant connoisseurs and collectors across the globe.

FEATURED GUIDES

NEARBY WINERIES

bottom of page