2022 Joseph Drouhin Cote de Nuits-Villages, Burgundy

Joseph Drouhin Côte de Nuits-Villages is a classic, finely made red Burgundy that offers a true taste of the Côte de Nuits at a more accessible level. Sourced from carefully selected vineyards in the villages of Comblanchien, Corgoloin, and Premeaux, this wine reflects the Drouhin family's elegant, terroir-driven style with a focus on finesse and balance rather than power.

Made entirely from Pinot Noir, the grapes are grown on clay-limestone soils that give the wine its structure and mineral tension. Fermentation takes place with indigenous yeasts, and ageing is carried out in French oak barrels (20 percent new) for around 12 to 14 months, allowing for subtle integration of oak and the development of complexity without overshadowing the purity of fruit.

The nose is lifted and precise, offering red cherry, wild strawberry, rose petal and a whisper of forest floor and spice. The palate is medium bodied and supple, with fine-grained tannins, bright acidity and flavours of raspberry, crushed herbs, and a gentle earthiness. It’s an understated and refined expression that showcases the Côte de Nuits character with clarity and restraint.

Food pairing: excellent with roast chicken, duck breast with cherry glaze, mushroom risotto, grilled salmon or creamy cheeses like Chaource and Délice de Bourgogne.

Cellar potential: approachable now with air, but will evolve beautifully over 5 to 8 years, gaining savoury and floral complexity with time.