Joseph Drouhin : Griotte-Chambertin Grand cru 2021

Tasting characteristics and advice for the Griotte-Chambertin Grand Cru 2021 from Joseph Drouhin

Tasting

Appearance

The wine displays a deep ruby-red color with black-cherry highlights, bright and luminous, reflecting the exceptional quality of the selected grapes.

Nose

The nose reveals remarkable complexity, with aromas of red and black fruits (cherry, blackcurrant, redcurrant), complemented by delicate notes of fine leather, nutmeg, and licorice. With aeration, mineral nuances and toasted almond gradually emerge.

Palate

On the palate, this wine charms with abundant, present tannins that are never aggressive or coarse. Its silky, elegant texture is accompanied by lovely freshness that brings balance and vibrancy. The finish stands out for its exceptionally long aromatic persistence, with flavors that evolve and unfold with finesse.

Food and wine pairings

This Griotte-Chambertin Grand Cru pairs beautifully with red meats in sauce, roasted or sauced feathered game, as well as herb-braised lamb. It also matches perfectly with mushroom- and truffle-based dishes, and with washed-rind cheeses.

Serving and cellaring

The Griotte-Chambertin Grand Cru 2021 is best enjoyed at a temperature of 16 to 18°C. This wine can be enjoyed now, but it will continue to develop harmoniously through around 2041, with an optimal drinking window between 2036 and 2041.

An elegant, refined grand cru from Gevrey-Chambertin

The estate

Founded in 1880 in Beaune by Joseph Drouhin, the House of Joseph Drouhin is now led by the family’s fourth generation, with Frédéric Drouhin as President and his three siblings in key roles. The estate spans around 100 hectares in Burgundy, more than two-thirds of which are Premier and Grand Cru vineyards. A pioneer in biodynamic viticulture certified since 2009, Joseph Drouhin is also a member of the prestigious Primum Familiæ Vini association. The House stands out for a philosophy centered on elegance, finesse, and the authentic expression of Burgundy’s terroirs.

The vineyard

Griotte-Chambertin is one of the nine grand crus of Gevrey-Chambertin, located in Côte de Nuits. This 2.64- to 2.73-hectare vineyard occupies a central position between Charmes-Chambertin and Chapelle-Chambertin. Joseph Drouhin owns about 0.52 hectares here, representing a significant share of this exceedingly rare appellation. The vines, averaging 27 years of age, are planted on very stony limestone soils at an altitude of 240 to 250 meters, on an east-facing slope. The subsoil consists of fossil-rich marls and limestones, with slabs of hard limestone. Vineyard management follows biodynamic principles, with high planting densities (10,000 to 12,500 vines per hectare) and deliberately limited yields.

The vintage

The 2021 vintage in Burgundy presented many challenges for winegrowers. After a relatively mild, wet winter and early spring, flowering proceeded normally in June under favorable conditions. Summer was marked by irregular rainfall in July and heat spells in August. The vintage experienced historic downy mildew pressure, requiring constant vigilance and repeated natural treatments. Harvest began on September 22 in Côte de Nuits, with morning picking to preserve the grapes’ freshness. Extremely strict selection was applied to keep only the finest healthy bunches. Despite these difficulties, 2021 produced harmonious, elegant wines in a classic Burgundy style, favoring freshness and fruit expression.

Vinification and aging

The Griotte-Chambertin Grand Cru 2021 harvest was carried out by hand in small perforated crates to preserve the integrity of the berries. Vinification used between 20 and 50% whole clusters depending on grape health, with the remainder destemmed. Fermentation took place in small open vats with native yeasts over a period of two to three weeks. After vertical pressing and selection of the press wines, the wine was aged in oak barrels for about 18 months. This respectful approach helps preserve the finesse and elegance that define the Joseph Drouhin style.

Grape variety

100% pinot noir