# Griotte-Chambertin Grand Cru (2021)

- **Producer:** Joseph Drouhin
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Pinot Noir
- **Region:** Burgundy, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €760
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** red plum, red cherry, raspberry, vanilla, cloves, earth, leather, forest floor

## About this wine

Griotte-Chambertin Grand Cru is a distinguished red wine from Maison Joseph Drouhin, produced from 100% Pinot Noir in the renowned Gevrey-Chambertin appellation of Burgundy. The vineyard itself is exceptionally small, contributing to the wine's rarity. Maison Joseph Drouhin is a historic, family-run estate with a long-standing commitment to organic and biodynamic farming, aiming to capture the purest expression of the terroir. The 2021 vintage presented significant challenges, leading to very low yields but resulting in wines characterized by elegance and freshness, reflecting a classic Burgundian style.

## Interesting facts

- Griotte-Chambertin is one of the smallest Grand Cru vineyards in Gevrey-Chambertin.
- The name 'Griotte' may evoke Morello cherry, but it likely derives from 'Criots', related to chalk.
- Joseph Drouhin owns just over half a hectare within this tiny Grand Cru.
- The 2021 harvest yielded between 2 to 5 hl/ha, a fraction of a typical year.

## Food pairing

The wine's structure and refined tannins complement the richness of proteins like duck, pigeon, and lamb. Its vibrant acidity cuts through the fattiness of these dishes, while subtle earthy notes can echo the flavors of mushrooms or herbs, creating a harmonious balance.

## Wine making process

The production of Griotte-Chambertin Grand Cru involves a meticulous approach focused on natural processes. Grapes are harvested with a portion of whole clusters, ranging from 20% to 50% depending on the vintage. Fermentation and maceration take place over two to three weeks in small, open vats, utilizing indigenous yeasts and employing techniques like punching down the cap and pumping over. Pressing is conducted using a vertical press. The wine then undergoes aging for 16 to 20 months in French oak barrels, with a proportion of new oak used. Maison Joseph Drouhin's winemaking is guided by a philosophy of respecting the natural expression of the terroir and vintage, with a strong emphasis on organic and biodynamic viticulture.