2004 Domaine Armand Rousseau, Chambertin-Clos de Beze Grand Cru

A densely fruited and superbly complex nose of spice, earth, ripe red fruit aromas, leather and underbrush leads to rich, supple, elegant and pure flavors where the structure arrives all at once on the seriously long finish. This is not a big Bèze by the usual Rousseau standards yet the explosive finish and outstanding depth suggest that this will age well and hold for much longer. Drink 2014+.

Good full, deep red. Brooding, sappy aromas of black cherry, maraschino cherry and dusty minerality can't quite match the Clos Saint-Jacques today for sheer lift and perfume. Fat, full and sweet, with a sexy, pliant texture and compelling depth of plum, spice and underbrush flavor. Boasts excellent volume for the vintage without losing its silky restraint or balance. Finishes very long and spicy, with broad, dusty tannins and lively accents of mint and licorice. Almost surprisingly accessible today; the wine's structure is most noticeable on the authoritative, gripping back end.

Looks if anything less blue than most other vintages. Pretty complete and rich on the nose for a 2004! Most impressive… Very fruity and dense and exciting. Really lively and vigorous. Long. Lively cherry fruit. (JR)