What a fantastic evening with Véronique Drouhin-Boss at La Mouette on Friday the 9th of May. Thirty-five eager tasters were not only excited to experience some of the best wines of the 2011 vintage, but also listen to Véronique – a fourth generation Burgundy winemaker. Her elegance, warmth and calm character shone through in what are some of Burgundy’s most honest and elegant wines. Maison Drouhin is also a leader in organic and biodynamic viticulture and Véronique was able to explain just how these practices have influenced the quality of the wines over the last 30 years.
The superlative and consistent quality of the Drouhins from the relatively challenging 2011 vintage impressed all of the tasters. The wines included Chassagne Montrachet 1er Cru Morgeot, Meursault 1er Cru Perrières, Puligny Montrachet 1er Folatières, Corton Charlemagne, Beaune Clos des Mouches Rouge 1er Cru and Clos de Vougeot. The favourites were probably the Corton Charlemagne and Meursault, both brooding and tight with firm mineral acidities. Over dinner, a range of more mature 2007s were enjoyed, with the Chambolle Musigny 1er Cru proving a wonderful accompaniment to the duck.
The winners of the free dinner with Véronique Drouhin-Boss were Philani Shongwe and Ryan Mostert. (Read about our Burgundy competition here.) Both were able to ask one of Burgundy’s most respected winemakers as many questions as they desired and I am sure benefited greatly. There were unfortunately very few entries, which is rather disappointing considering this great opportunity for young, poor winemakers!
We thank Véronique for giving up her time and hosting a wonderful evening.
See a list of all the available Joseph Drouhin wines on Winecellar.co.za or email [email protected] for prices on the 2012s.
– Roland Peens, Director of Wine Cellar
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