Joseph Drouhin : Grands-Echezeaux Grand cru 2011

100% Pinot Noir from sites located above Clos Vougeot, with only a wall separating these two famous vineyards. The name “Echezeaux” comes from “cheza”, which means a hamlet.  The monks of Citeaux, who already owned Clos Vougeot, coveted the Musigny vineyard but were never able to acquire it. They put all their hopes instead on Grands-Echezaux to become the rival of the prestigious Musigny. The vineyards are set on a moderate include, facing due east. Chalk soils from the Bajocian layer are perfect for Pinot Noir. The vineyards are biodynamically farmed and hand harvested in small open crates in order to preserve the integrity of the fruit. This Pinot Noir is aged 14 to 18 months in French barrel, 20% which is new.

Tasting note by Véronique Boss-Drouhin:

"In its youth, the wine displays aromas of great finesse, reminiscent of cherry and dark chocolate or cocoa bean, which is a delicate and sought after characteristic of this wine. As the wine matures, these aromas evolve towards other refined nuances evoking undergrowth, truffle, fine leather and sometimes light notes of cigar or cedar wood. The result is of great elegance and breed. The tannins are refined and the silk and velvet of the body are a perfect match. Very long aftertaste in which some of the aromas previously encountered are again in evidence and create the most elegant sensation".