1996 Armand Rousseau Chambertin – Grand Cru

From one of the greatest names in Burgundy, the 1996 Chambertin is a dark red with a hint of amber at the rim. Intense violet notes complicate strawberry, blueberry, smoke and Oriental spices on the deep, complex and very refined nose. The wine is fine-grained and elegant in the mouth, with smoky and floral elements lifting the red and dark berry flavors. Noteworthy acidity augments the palate sensation of still-firm tannins on the long finish, suggesting many years of life ahead. The Chambertin is a knockout wine very much in the mold of this slowly developing, high-acid vintage. 95/Drinking Window: 2016-2024.

-- Ian D’Agata