Wines Unspecified Joseph Drouhin - Clos des Mouches - 2020

Viniou Reviews

Joseph Drouhin’s Clos des Mouches Blanc 2020 is a remarkable expression of Burgundian Chardonnay, representing one of the most esteemed Premier Crus of Beaune. This monopole vineyard, planted predominantly with Chardonnay, is renowned for its meticulous viticulture and traditional vinification. In 2020, a challenging yet ultimately rewarding vintage, the grapes benefited from a warm and dry growing season, producing wines of both concentration and freshness. The wine emerges with an enticing bouquet of white flowers, acacia honey, subtle citrus, and a gentle touch of spice. On the palate, it is simultaneously rich and mineral, layered with notes of stone fruit, almond, and a hint of buttered brioche, elegantly framed by refined oak and a lingering, crystalline finish.

Burgundy, and especially the Côte de Beaune, is blessed with a unique mosaic of limestone-rich soils and an ideal temperate climate moderated by westerly winds and gentle slopes. This terroir, coupled with centuries of winemaking heritage—Joseph Drouhin itself was founded in 1880—creates conditions in which Chardonnay can fully express its complexity and finesse. Clos des Mouches occupies a prized position on the southern border of Beaune, with excellent drainage and varied soils that contribute to the wine’s depth and nuance.

For food pairings, Clos des Mouches Blanc excels with refined, subtly flavoured dishes. Classic matches include scallops pan-seared in butter, lobster with a delicate citrus emulsion, or a roasted Bresse chicken with morel mushrooms. Regional cheeses such as aged Comté or Chaource also complement the creamy texture and balanced acidity of the wine. For a touch of local authenticity, try pairing it with a traditional quenelle de brochet.

This Premier Cru Burgundy should be served slightly cool, ideally at 11-13°C, to allow its nuanced aromas and rich palate to unfold gradually. Decanting for thirty minutes before serving can further enhance its aromatic profile, revealing increasing layers of depth with each sip.