2011 Domaine Georges Roumier, Chambolle-Musigny Premier Cru, Les Amoureuses

Tasted blind in a line-up of 2011 Amoureuses in Holland, Georges Roumier’s 2011 Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Amoureuses possesses a stricter nose vis-a-vis La Pousse d’Or’s Amoureuses ’11: slightly more herbaceous in style but well-defined and demonstrating good intensity. This is very natural and composed – very 2011 in style more than Amoureuses, but more bashful. The palate is medium-bodied with slightly chalky tannins, a fine citric thread of acidity as well as tension, and a structured but feminine finish. This is a more elegant take on Amoureuses but one that is well made. This has a mouth-tingling saltiness on the finish. On this showing, this is the finest Amoureuses in 2011. Tasted June 2014.

Voluptuous and racy to the core, Roumier's Chambolle-Musigny Les Amoureuses is rich, explosive and beautifully layered. Dark red cherry, plum and rose petals blossom in the glass in an effortless Burgundy built on pure grace. Today, the 2011 Amoureuses is showy and super-expressive. Readers who can find the Amoureuses should not hesitate, as it is fabulous.

Outstanding, A strikingly spicy and intensely floral nose combines notes of plum, violet, cassis and wet stone with hints of sandalwood and exotic tea. There is a remarkable sense of vibrancy to the lacy and markedly mineral-laden medium weight flavors that exhibit an abundance of saline character on the refreshing and stunningly long finish that makes this effortless to drink. This is actually quite firm yet the tannins are so well-integrated that this seems more forward than it really is. If you can find a bottle or two, don't miss it. Drink: 2026+
-Burghound.com Tasted: Jan 15, 2014

Good bright, dark red. Brooding aromas of dark raspberry, crushed cherry, mocha and smoky minerality. Less thick than the Bonnes-Mares but with an urgent character to its crushed cherry and mineral flavors. Very tightly wound wine with terrific grip and verve; reminded me of Red Jacket Orchards' tart cherry stomp. Finishes with piquant chalky minerality and excellent power and length. Lay this one down.