Domaine Drouhin, Drouhin-Laroze & Joseph Drouhin
Domaine Joseph Drouhin: A World-Renowned Burgundy Wine Producer
"Drouhin's style places the greatest premium on aromatic range and structural finesse." ~ William Kelley, Wine Advocate
In the pantheon of Burgundian winemaking giants lies Domaine Drouhin, owning over 100 hectares of land in Premier and Grand Cru sites, with an additional 225 acres in Oregon's Willamette Valley. The domaine's history dates back to 1880 and has remained in family hands throughout its existence. Now in its fourth generation of family ownership, Drouhin wines offer drinkers one of Burgundy's premium values, crafting elegant cuvèes at a fraction of the price of neighboring domaines.
Domaine Drouhin History
Domaine Drouhin was founded in 1880 by Joseph Drouhin at only 22 years old. The young negociant moved from Chablis to Beaune and purchased the trading rights of a domaine, though it was not until his son, Maurice, took over in 1918 that Drouhin began acquiring vineyards. The young owner purchased Clos des Mouches, considered Beaune's greatest vineyard, as well as one of the greatest terroirs in all of Burgundy. Additional purchases over the next four decades elevated Domaine Drouhin into one of the region's most esteemed estates. However, the post-World War era saw Drouhin and Burgundy as a whole struggle; in 1957, Maurice sadly passed away from a stroke, leaving his nephew, 24-year-old Robert, in charge.
Equipped with only a law and literature degree, Robert Drouhin quickly adapted to the grueling wine business and acquired almost 100 acres in Chablis. Many of the appellation's vines were unkempt and riddled with phylloxera due to the ongoing financial depression, allowing Robert to purchase multiple sites at a reduced rate.
Drouhin's next major venture was a 100-acre purchase in Oregon's Willamette Valley in 1987. Nearly 25 years prior, Robert Drouhin met with Robert Mondavi in California, and was urged by the pioneering winemaker to invest in the booming state. Though the prospect intrigued him, the prospect of growing Cabernet Sauvignon made Drouhin uncertain.
Joseph Drouhin Wine
Joseph Douhin sells 136 wines in its portfolio, with 130 produced from Burgundy and the remaining 6 from Oregon. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are the only varietals grown from either location, each celebrated for its elegance, refined tannins, and velvety texture.
Every vintage is organically and biodynamically farmed, as horse ploughing, cover cropping, and natural composting maintain soil health. Drouhin became one of Burgundy's first domaine's to adopt a chemical-free approach when Robert Drouhin recognized its immense benefits. Furthermore, each harvest is hand-picked and combined with the high-density planting, results in relatively low yields.
Acquire Domaine Drouhin Today
Domaine Drouhin has remained one of Burgundy's greatest wines for over 100 years, producing immaculate Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs. With numerous Premier Cru, Grand Cru, and Villagè offerings, there is a taste for every palate. Browse our selection of Drouhin wines and add a bottle to your cellar today.
