Joseph Drouhin Chambolle Musigny Amoureuses 2012

In French, 'Les Amoureuses' means 'the lovers', probably one of the most appropriate names for a vineyard in all Burgundy since tasting this Chambolle Musigny is like falling in love! Officially a Premier Cru, it is often considered of the same highest quality as neighboring Grand Crus. 'Les Amoureuses' is clearly one of the crown jewels of the Joseph Drouhin vineyards, and no expense or toil is spared when it comes to its cultivation and vinification. The vineyard is planted with very old Pinot Noir vines whose clones are sacredly kept in order to retain the genetic heritage of the vine stocks as much as possible.

Drouhin's vines in this vineyard have been organic/biological since 1990, and biodynamic cultivation since the mid-1990's. Soil is ploughed either by tractor or by horse to manage spreading of weeds. Treatment in the vineyard is only authorized products for biological cultivation. Natural predators are not eliminated. Harvesting is done by hand, in small open crates in order to preserve the integrity of the fruit. Aging is done in barrels (20% in new oak) for 14 to 18 months.

Les Amoureuses is a masterpiece of finesse and complexity; with its ruby or cherry-like hue, it also has a seductive palette of aromas constantly in flux: it is not unusual to first detect raspberry or kirsch flavors, followed by fleeting truffle or mushroom aromas, ending on a humus note. In some years, the nose will always retain elegance and reserved stance. On the palate, the tannins are never on the forefront but blend themselves seamlessly with the flavors. All silk and velvet, Chambolle-Musigny 'Les Amoureuses' leaves an ethereal impression of supreme refinement. This elite wine should be served with delicately prepared dishes, such as "Canard aux cerises" (duck cooked with cherries) or "Boeuf aux morilles" (beef with morels) or with cheeses that are ripe but not too strong.