Wines Clos-de-la-Roche Joseph Drouhin - 2005

Viniou Reviews

Joseph Drouhin’s 2005 Clos-de-la-Roche Grand Cru is a magnificent example of old-vine Burgundian Pinot Noir at its most expressive. Crafted exclusively from Pinot Noir, this celebrated vintage comes from one of the most illustrious climats of the Côte de Nuits, within the legendary Clos de la Roche AOC. The 2005 season was marked by excellent weather, producing generous, ripe fruit balanced with vibrant acidity. Traditional vinification techniques are employed at Maison Joseph Drouhin, with meticulous attention to hand-harvesting, carefully controlled fermentations, and extensive ageing in French oak barrels—partly new—to refine the wine’s intricate structure and aromatic complexity. What results is a wine of exceptional depth, boasting notes of wild cherry, blackcurrant, earth, truffle, and a subtle touch of spice and sous-bois—a true hallmark of mature Grand Cru Burgundy.

The Côte de Nuits, stretching from Dijon to Corgoloin, is the beating heart of red Burgundy, celebrated for its thin, well-drained limestone and clay soils that offer ideal conditions for Pinot Noir. The terraces and slopes are perfectly positioned to catch the morning sun, ensuring slow, even ripening. The region’s cool continental climate fosters elegance and subtlety, lending its wines a remarkable capacity for age. Historical records date Clos de la Roche’s reputation back centuries, its name reflecting both the rocky terroir and the traditional stone walls enclosing the vineyard.

For pairings, the sophistication and aromatic power of this Grand Cru call for equally refined dishes. It shines with roasted duck breast with cherry sauce, pigeon en croûte, or a herb-crusted rack of lamb. Traditional Burgundian fare, such as coq au vin or œufs en meurette, also provide a wonderful complement. For cheese, look to aged Époisses or Brillat-Savarin.

Before serving, allow the wine to breathe in a decanter for at least an hour—it will help the bouquet unfurl in layers. The ideal tasting temperature is 16-18°C, which preserves its freshness and maximises the complexity of its aromas. Enjoy with patience, and savour the elegance of a truly world-class Burgundy.