# Joseph Drouhin Saint-Véran (2024)

- **Producer:** Joseph Drouhin
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay
- **Region:** Burgundy, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.0%
- **Average price:** €25
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 12–13 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blossom, lemon, apple, pear, butter, toast, almond

## About this wine

Maison Joseph Drouhin was founded in Beaune in 1880 by Joseph Drouhin and remains a historic family-owned estate now guided by its fourth generation. Spanning over 80 hectares of estate vineyards, the domaine is recognized as a pioneer in organic and biodynamic viticulture in Burgundy. Located in the Mâconnais district at the southern tip of Burgundy, Saint-Véran produces white wines from Jurassic limestone soils continuous with the Côte d'Or.

## Interesting facts

- The Saint-Véran AOC was established in 1971, making it the youngest village appellation in the Mâconnais region.
- The official commune name is spelled 'Saint-Vérand' with a 'd', whereas the wine AOC drops the final letter.
- Maison Joseph Drouhin was one of the very first major Burgundy houses to adopt organic and biodynamic farming.

## Food pairing

Saint-Véran Chardonnay balances vibrant acidity with moderate weight and subtle oak influence. The crisp acidity cleanses the palate when paired with rich white meats, creamy sauces, and goat cheese, while the subtle mineral notes complement fresh seafood and lighter fish dishes.

## Wine making process

Grapes are harvested gently by hand or machine depending on site topography. The vinification process features slow pressing with a pneumatic press to preserve fruit integrity, excluding the final press juice. Direct cold settling is performed without added enzymes or artificial yeast. Fermentation takes place with two-thirds in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats and one-third in 500-liter oak barrels. The wine ages on lees for 6 to 10 months with regular bâtonnage.