Maison, landowner, producer, negociant; Joseph Drouhin make a stunning set of wines from some of Burgundy’s finest terroirs, and apply the very best of modern practice in viticulture and vinification. Their vineyard-focused approach, foregrounding low yields, high density plantings, organics and biodynamics mean all their wines are marked by a strong sense of its individual terroir.

The domaine is run according to strict biodynamic principles. The goal is to improve the quality of their soils and the health of their vines, and protect the biodiversity that in turn helps protect them from pests.

142 years after the eponymous Joseph founded his Beaune winery, it is expertly managed by his four great-grandchildren Philippe, Veronique, Laurent and Frederic. Their very modern winery on the outskirts of Beaune contrasts with the labyrinthine medieval tunnels of their cellars under the centre of Beaune. In 1944 Maurice Drouhin, who had been helping the Resistance, used those tunnels to escape the German soldiers coming to arrest him. If you ever visit, take a ball of twine to find your way out. (NT 09/08/23)