2013 Georges Roumier Les Cras: The “Holy Grail” Burgundy
“Roumier is the holy grail for collectors.”
— Wine Advocate
Weekend Wine is proud to present one of the most coveted bottles in the world of fine Burgundy: the 2013 Domaine Georges Roumier Chambolle-Musigny Les Cras. A true collectible from one of Burgundy’s most esteemed producers, showcasing a vineyard site that defines Chambolle-Musigny’s elegance and precision.
A Legendary Producer: Domaine Georges Roumier
Since 1924, Domaine Georges Roumier has been a towering figure in the Côte d'Or. The estate has earned a near-mythical reputation among Burgundy collectors and connoisseurs, and rightly so. Under the meticulous care of Christophe Roumier, grandson of the founder Georges, the Domaine has continued its rise to legendary status. Christophe took over in 1982 at just 24 years old, and has since become a mentor to a new generation of Burgundian vignerons.
With approximately 40 acres of vineyards across 12 esteemed appellations—including Chambolle-Musigny, Morey-Saint-Denis, Echezeaux, Corton-Charlemagne, and Charmes-Chambertin—Roumier’s reach spans some of Burgundy’s most prestigious terroirs. Yet it is in Chambolle-Musigny, where the Domaine is headquartered, that Christophe’s artistry reaches its most nuanced expression.
Inside the Cellar: Roumier's Winemaking Philosophy
Christophe Roumier’s winemaking style is one of restraint and balance. Across the Domaine, the average vine age is around 40 years, contributing depth and complexity to the wines. In the cellar, Christophe often retains 20–30% of whole clusters for fermentation (except for the Bourgogne Rouge, which is fully destemmed). He uses punchdowns to gently extract flavor and structure. New oak is used sparingly, typically 15–30%, with the exception of certain cuvées like Corton-Charlemagne and Musigny, which see mostly used barrels to preserve aromatic purity.
About the Vineyard: Les Cras
The Les Cras vineyard is situated high on the slopes of Chambolle-Musigny. Its stony, limestone-rich soils lend an unmistakable minerality and finesse to the wine. The site produces Pinot Noir of remarkable purity and precision, with a signature that favors energy, perfume, and texture over overt power or oak influence.
The 2013 vintage, now with over a decade of cellar age, is finally entering its prime drinking window. Expect high-toned red fruit, subtle floral notes, and a spine of vibrant acidity wrapped around a long, mineral-driven finish. This is classic, terroir-expressive Burgundy—the kind of wine that rewards patience and captivates the senses.
Why Collectors Chase Roumier
Domaine Roumier wines rarely make it to retail shelves. They are tightly allocated, often spoken for years in advance, and snapped up by top collectors and sommeliers worldwide. The combination of low production, impeccable quality, and deep aging potential makes each bottle a prized possession.
The 2013 Chambolle-Musigny Les Cras is especially rare—a wine that bridges elegance and structure, embodying both the personality of the vineyard and the vision of the winemaker.