Wines Unspecified Joseph Drouhin - Aux Serpentieres - 2005

Viniou Reviews

Joseph Drouhin's 2005 "Cuvée Aux Serpentières" Premier Cru is a distinguished red Burgundy wine crafted exclusively from Pinot Noir, the quintessential varietal of the region. The 2005 vintage is particularly renowned for its exceptional quality, coming from a growing season marked by ideal weather conditions: a warm, dry summer and favourable harvest period contributed to concentrated, well-structured wines. "Aux Serpentières" is a respected Premier Cru climat, noted for producing complex and age-worthy reds. Joseph Drouhin, a historic Burgundian estate, is lauded for its commitment to expressing terroir through meticulous vineyard work and restrained winemaking. In the glass, expect a wine displaying an alluring bouquet of ripe red berries, wild cherries, subtle spice, and delicate earthy undertones. With age, tertiary aromas of leather, underbrush, and truffle may develop, enhancing the wine’s complexity. The palate is elegant and finely balanced, showcasing refined tannins, vibrant acidity, and a lingering, silky finish.

Burgundy is a region steeped in history and tradition, acclaimed globally for its exquisite Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The terroir of Burgundy is highly differentiated, with a patchwork of vineyards each imparting their own distinctive character to the wines. The soils in the Premier Cru vineyard "Aux Serpentières" typically feature limestone and clay, contributing to finesse and elegance in the wines. The region's cool continental climate allows Pinot Noir to ripen slowly, resulting in wines with aromatic complexity and compelling structure. Burgundy’s commitment to tradition and parcel-by-parcel vinification ensures that each wine is a unique reflection of its origin.

To best complement this Premier Cru Burgundy, consider classic pairings such as duck breast in a red berry sauce, roasted game bird, or a tender rack of lamb with herbs. For a touch of regional authenticity, Boeuf Bourguignon is a superb match, as are earthy mushroom risottos or wild pigeon with root vegetables. The wine’s elegance and evolved earthiness make it versatile at the table, pairing beautifully with refined poultry and subtle truffle-infused dishes.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at a temperature of 16-18°C. Decanting for around 30 minutes before serving can help to aerate the wine and bring forth its nuanced aromatics, especially with a vintage as mature and complex as 2005.