Rousseau Freres
Domaine Armand Rousseau
Clos de la Roche Grand Cru Pinot Noir 1996
1996 Domaine Armand Rousseau Clos de la Roche Grand Cru
Clos de la Roche, situated in Morey-Saint-Denis, is the most renowned and the largest Grand Cru vineyard of the village. Its terroir is consequently exceptional, yielding wines with striking acidity, remarkable concentration, and a structure that is powerful yet displays extraordinarily refined tannins. It is often considered one of Burgundy's most compelling wines, masterfully combining power with elegance.
The style neither mirrors the robust, muscular, and overtly powerful character typical of its northern neighbour, Gevrey-Chambertin, nor does it precisely replicate the extreme perfume, elegance, and delicacy that define its southern neighbour, Chambolle-Musigny. Instead, Clos de la Roche is the quintessential synthesis of strength and finesse—boasting a solid backbone alongside intricate depth of aroma and texture. Thanks to its pronounced acidity, one should not open a bottle without allowing for at least 15 years of ageing.
Upon opening, after 30 minutes the nose offered aromas of ripe black cherry, wild strawberry, sour plum, rose, and violet. After an hour, further notes of truffle, forest floor, leather, and spice developed. However, the minerality I expected remained elusive.
The bottle's condition was unfortunately not optimal. It lacked the sustained aromatic evolution and explosive bouquet I had anticipated. This fatigue and muted character were likely a result of its shipment from the United States. — 3 months ago
Jacques Girardin
Clos Rousseau Santenay 1er Cru Pinot Noir 2020
Another steak dinner and another better than expected wine. Well-balanced, but robust barrel and red fruit flavors that come together harmoniously. — 4 months ago
Domaine Armand Rousseau
Clos St. Jacques Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Pinot Noir 1999
A fantastically complex and profound nose. Dark gnarly fruit, some black cherry and complex herbal notes. Lovely fruit and getting better by the minute in the glass. Glorious as always. — 2 months ago
Derey Freres
Les Vignes Marie Marsannay Pinot Noir 2021
Domaine Derey Frères – Marsannay “Les Vignes Marie” 2021 🇫🇷
Marsannay AOC, Côte de Nuits – Burgundy, France
Overview
100% Pinot Noir from Marsannay, the only Côte de Nuits village allowed to produce wines in all three colors (red, white, and rosé). “Les Vignes Marie” is a standout parcel that shows the classic finesse of Burgundy Pinot while keeping Marsannay’s hallmark freshness and approachability.
Aromas & Flavors
Bright red cherry, raspberry, and wild strawberry lead the nose, with hints of rose petal, subtle spice, and earthy forest floor. A touch of mineral undertone brings lift and precision.
Mouthfeel
Elegant and medium-bodied with silky tannins, lively acidity, and a refined structure. Balanced and supple, finishing with freshness that keeps you coming back for another sip.
Winemaking Notes
The Derey family has been established in Marsannay since the mid-17th century, and their work focuses on organic farming and gentle cellar practices. The 2021 vintage, cooler and classic in style, emphasizes delicacy over power.
Food Pairing
Perfect with roast chicken, duck breast, mushroom risotto, or a charcuterie board. Its finesse makes it versatile across light meats and earthy vegetarian dishes.
Verdict
A graceful Burgundy Pinot that captures Marsannay’s balance between Côte de Nuits structure and charming approachability. For me, this sits as one of my most favorite wines in the Côte de Nuits — at a very affordable price point, it punches well above its weight and shows how Burgundy can still deliver tremendous value.
📚 Educational Sidebar – Why Marsannay Matters
Marsannay, at the northern gateway of the Côte de Nuits, is often overshadowed by its neighbors like Gevrey-Chambertin. But its wines deliver exceptional value, showing Pinot Noir with purity, finesse, and terroir character — a smart entry point into Burgundy without the Grand Cru price tag. Cheers! — 3 months ago
Domaine Armand Rousseau
Gevrey-Chambertin Pinot Noir 2021
Drinking well showing red cherry, berry, earth, spice & floral notes — a month ago
Y Rousseau
Le Roi Soleil Cabernet Sauvignon 2013
A wonderful Mount Veeder Cab that has aged elegantly.
The nose shows blackcurrant, blackberry, and plum laced with savory notes of cedar, tobacco and dried herbs. The palate is concentrated yet vibrant with silky tannins has firm grip, finishing long with hints of cocoa and espresso.
Restrained power and finesse, Yannick brought both Veeder’s rugged characters and French precision. Last bottle. — 3 months ago
Ron Siegel
Pair of 12’s with the Rousseau showing more finesse & floral than the Roumier that will need more time — 8 days ago