Maison Joseph Drouhin Meursault 2021

Winery Background and History

Maison Joseph Drouhin, established in 1880, is a family-owned winery located in Beaune, Burgundy. Over four generations, the Drouhin family has expanded their vineyards to encompass 80 hectares, making it one of the largest estates in the region. Their holdings span prestigious appellations in Chablis, Côte de Nuits, Côte de Beaune, and Côte Chalonnaise. The family’s philosophy emphasizes respect for terroir, a commitment to biodynamic and organic viticulture, and a pursuit of excellence in winemaking. This dedication has solidified their reputation for producing wines that express purity, elegance, and typicity of Burgundy’s diverse terroirs.

Producer and Winemaker

The Drouhin family remains deeply involved in the estate’s operations. Véronique Boss-Drouhin, the fourth generation, serves as the head winemaker, bringing her extensive experience and passion for Burgundy wines to the role. She collaborates closely with her brothers, Frédéric, Laurent, and Philippe, each contributing to various aspects of the business, from vineyard management to international marketing. Their collective efforts ensure that the family’s traditions and commitment to quality continue to thrive.

Vineyards and Microclimate

The Meursault appellation is situated a few kilometers south of Beaune, within the celebrated terroir of Côte des Blancs in the Côte de Beaune sub-region. The vineyards benefit from a continental climate, characterized by warm summers and cool winters, which is ideal for Chardonnay cultivation. The soils in Meursault vary: around the village, they are deep and colorful; at mid-slope, they become clearer and lighter; and in the upper reaches of the appellation, the soils are nearly white and very rocky. This diversity in soil composition contributes to the complexity and minerality of the wines produced here. The 2021 vintage faced significant challenges due to adverse weather conditions, including frost, leading to one of the smallest harvests in Burgundy’s history. Despite these difficulties, the resulting wines are well-balanced with lovely aromatics, reflecting the resilience and meticulous care of the vineyard management.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Chardonnay

Vinification & Aging Methods

The grapes for this wine are harvested by hand and carefully sorted to ensure optimal quality. After a gentle, slow pressing in a pneumatic press, the juice undergoes a brief settling period before being transferred into oak barrels for fermentation. Approximately 20% of these barrels are new oak, imparting subtle complexity without overwhelming the fruit character. Both alcoholic and malolactic fermentations occur in these barrels, followed by an aging period of 14 to 16 months. The barrels are crafted from oak sourced from French high forests, known for their fine grain and contribution to the wine’s structure and aromatic profile. Throughout the aging process, the wine is regularly monitored and tasted to ensure it develops harmoniously, embodying the true expression of its terroir and vintage.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

Approximately 13%

Tasting Notes

The 2021 Joseph Drouhin Meursault presents a beautiful golden color with a great aromatic palette. On the nose, it reveals aromas of honey, linden flower, and hazelnut butter, sometimes even chamomile or hawthorn. On the palate, a silky roundness with flavors of yellow plum and gingerbread. The finish is long and persistent, leaving a lasting impression of elegance and complexity. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This elegant Chardonnay pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Its fresh silkiness and complex flavors complement seafood, particularly shellfish like scallops or lobster, as well as poultry dishes in creamy sauces. It also harmonizes well with soft cheeses such as Brie or Camembert. For a delightful pairing, consider serving it alongside a roasted chicken with herbs or a creamy mushroom risotto.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate the nuances of this wine, it is recommended to serve it at a temperature of 13°C (55°F). Using medium-sized white wine glasses will allow the aromas to concentrate and enhance the tasting experience. Decanting is not necessary; however, allowing the wine to breathe for a few minutes after pouring can help open up its aromatic profile.

Storage and Aging Potential

The 2021 Joseph Drouhin Meursault has an optimal consumption window of 5 to 8 years, with an aging potential of up to 10 years. When stored in proper cellar conditions—cool, dark, and with stable temperatures—the wine will develop additional complexity, with its flavors evolving towards richer, more nuanced expressions.

Scores

James Suckling: 92 points