Wines Unspecified Joseph Drouhin - Les Grèves - 2005

Viniou Reviews

Joseph Drouhin's "Les Grèves" 2005 is an exceptional Premier Cru red Burgundy that encapsulates both the essence of its terroir and the elegance of top Côte d'Or winemaking. Crafted primarily from Pinot Noir, the noble grape of Burgundy, this cuvée comes from the famed Grèves vineyard, a site known for its gravelly soils that lend both finesse and structure to the wine. The 2005 vintage stands out as one of the greatest of the early 21st century, marked by optimal ripening conditions—warm days balanced by cool nights, resulting in grapes of superb concentration and balance. The vinification at Joseph Drouhin emphasises traditional Burgundian methods: hand-harvesting, gentle pressing, and ageing in French oak, which enhances the wine's natural complexity without overshadowing its delicate fruit profile.

Burgundy itself is a region steeped in history and renowned for its complex mosaic of climates and soils. The area’s continental climate, with marked seasonal variations, contributes to the expressive nature of its Pinot Noir. Soils in the Grèves Premier Cru, especially those composed of gravel, chalk, and limestone, impart a unique minerality and a fine tannic structure. With a legacy of viticulture dating back to Roman times, Burgundy remains at the heart of the French wine heritage, and Joseph Drouhin is one of its most respected names, known for championing purity and terroir expression.

This wine’s nuanced bouquet of red cherry, raspberry, wild strawberry, and subtle earthy undertones is complemented by hints of spice and smokiness from its careful oak maturation. It pairs beautifully with classic Burgundian dishes such as coq au vin or boeuf bourguignon, as well as more refined fare like roast duck with cherry sauce or pigeon in a red wine reduction. Mushrooms, especially wild or morel, make for a particularly harmonious pairing due to their earthy character echoing the wine’s own savoury notes.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this Joseph Drouhin Les Grèves 2005 at 16-18°C. Decanting for around an hour can help the wine reveal its full aromatic complexity. This cru is at a beautiful stage of maturity, but can still evolve gracefully if given additional cellar time.