Domaine Armand Rousseau Clos St Jacques 1er cru, Gevrey-Chambertin

Many critics consider Clos Saint-Jacques a grand cru in all but official classification. Rousseau's holding — the largest single parcel in the climat — produces a wine of extraordinary complexity, balancing Gevrey's power with a finesse that surprises. It is, consistently, one of the finest Premier Crus made anywhere in Burgundy, and in great vintages it challenges Rousseau's own Grands Crus for sheer majesty. An essential reference point for serious pinot noir.