Wines Chorey-lès-Beaune Joseph Drouhin - Chorey-Les-Beaune - 2018

Joseph Drouhin's 2018 Chorey-lès-Beaune is a fine representation of the Côte de Beaune, offering the expressive, aromatic style associated with this distinguished Burgundian appellation. In this vintage, the wine reveals a vibrant ruby colour, hinting at its youthful freshness. While Pinot Noir is usually the primary grape of Chorey-lès-Beaune reds, the best examples – as this cuvée suggests – focus on delicate red fruit aromas such as cherry and raspberry, accompanied by floral notes and a gently earthy undertone. The wine is likely made with careful vinification to preserve the purity and finesse of the fruit, often utilising a mix of stainless steel and seasoned oak to maintain balance and freshness.

The village of Chorey-lès-Beaune sits on the plain just north of Beaune, in the heart of the Côte de Beaune subregion of Burgundy. Here, the terroir is composed mainly of alluvial soils with significant limestone elements, lending charm and suppleness to the wines. The microclimate benefits from both cool breezes and good sun exposure, which ensures ripeness while maintaining lively acidity – crucial for the region's elegant reds. The village itself, though less famous than its neighbours, has built a reputation for accessible, charming wines that showcase the classic Burgundian style with a touch of rustic authenticity.

With its graceful structure and bright fruit, this wine is particularly versatile at the table. Traditional Burgundian fare such as coq au vin, duck confit, or a simple roasted chicken with herbs would be excellent companions. Its lighter profile also makes it a natural choice for charcuterie, mushroom risottos, and soft cheeses like Reblochon or mild Brie. For a truly local pairing, try it with jambon persillé or beef bourguignon.

For optimal enjoyment, decant this wine for 30 minutes before serving at 15-16°C to allow the aromatic complexity to fully unfold. This will highlight both its youthful energy and the gentle maturity beginning to develop in this delightful 2018 vintage.