Joseph Drouhin Puligny-Montrachet 2019

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1880 by Joseph Drouhin in Beaune, Maison Joseph Drouhin is a family-owned estate renowned for its commitment to quality and tradition. Over the years, the Drouhin family has expanded their holdings across Burgundy, including prestigious vineyards in Chablis, Côte de Nuits, Côte de Beaune, and Côte Chalonnaise. They also established Domaine Drouhin Oregon in the Willamette Valley, USA. The estate practices organic and biodynamic viticulture, emphasizing the expression of terroir and the production of elegant, balanced wines. 

Producer and Winemaker

Maison Joseph Drouhin is currently managed by the fourth generation of the Drouhin family, with Frédéric Drouhin at the helm. The winemaking team, led by Véronique Drouhin-Boss, upholds the family’s philosophy of minimal intervention, allowing the wines to reflect their origin. Their approach combines traditional Burgundian techniques with modern precision, ensuring consistency and excellence across vintages.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The Puligny-Montrachet vineyards are situated in the Côte de Beaune sub-region of Burgundy, characterized by limestone-rich soils and a continental climate. These conditions are ideal for cultivating Chardonnay, imparting the wines with minerality and finesse. The 2019 vintage benefited from a warm growing season, resulting in grapes with optimal ripeness and balanced acidity. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes are hand-harvested and gently pressed to preserve their delicate aromas. Fermentation occurs in French oak barrels, with a portion being new oak to add complexity without overwhelming the fruit. The wine undergoes malolactic fermentation and is aged on its lees for 12 months, enhancing its texture and depth.

Tasting Notes

The 2019 Joseph Drouhin Puligny-Montrachet displays a pure, bright color with light glints of white gold. The nose offers aromas of blooming trees and white-fleshed fruits, such as white peaches. With age, these evolve into notes of almond and lightly grilled dried fruit. On the palate, the wine is fresh and silky, with a long, persistent finish showcasing a wealth of floral and fruity flavors. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This wine pairs beautifully with seafood dishes like oysters, crab, and grilled white fish. It also complements roasted poultry, creamy risottos, and mild cheeses such as Brie or goat cheese. Vegetable-based dishes, like roasted asparagus or artichokes with lemon, also harmonize well with its acidity and minerality. 

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve chilled at 10–12°C (50–54°F) in white wine glasses to enhance its aromatic profile. Decanting is not necessary, but allowing the wine to breathe for a few minutes can further reveal its complexity.

Storage and Aging Potential

Stored under optimal conditions—cool, dark, and with stable humidity—this wine can age gracefully for 8 to 10 years. Over time, it will develop deeper notes of honey, toasted nuts, and dried fruits, adding to its complexity.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Chardonnay

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

13%

Scores

• Burghound (Allen Meadows): 90 points