Beaune AOC 1er Cru Sizies 2021 Joseph Drouhin

What kind of wine is it

Beaune Premier Cru Sizies by Joseph Drouhin is a red Burgundy wine made from Pinot Noir. This Premier Cru from Beaune delivers precision and structure, with a broad yet balanced texture. The winemaking process involves maceration and fermentation in small open vats with indigenous yeasts, followed by aging in French oak designed to support complexity and persistence without altering the varietal's character.

Where does it come from

This wine comes from Burgundy, in the Beaune area, in the north-west sector of the commune. The Pinot Noir vines grow on clay soils, which contribute depth and a sense of structure to the palate. The name Sizies has been documented since the 13th century and refers to Renaud de Sesie, a landowner and mayor of Beaune in the Middle Ages, linking the cru to local history.

How is it produced

Production begins with manual harvesting and careful selection of the grapes. After picking, the Pinot Noir undergoes maceration and fermentation for 2–3 weeks in small open vats, using indigenous yeasts to preserve the expression of the terroir. This is followed by gentle pressing with a vertical press, and the wine is further aged for 14–16 months in French oak barrels.

Tasting notes

In the glass, it shows a brilliant, clear ruby color. The nose is focused on small wild berries, with hints of blackcurrant and redcurrant, complemented by more earthy undergrowth notes. On the palate, it is broad and rounded, with cherry flavors and a subtle spiciness in the background; the balance remains well-defined and the aromatic persistence extends into a clean finish.

Food pairings

It pairs naturally with game dishes and grilled red meats, where its structure and aromatic length complement succulence and toasty flavors without overpowering them. The undergrowth notes and the restrained fruitiness of Pinot Noir help to support flavorful preparations, maintaining a steady and precise trajectory on the palate.

When to serve

This is a recommended red wine when you want a balanced glass of Premier Cru quality, able to accompany structured dishes without becoming heavy. The 14–16 months of French oak aging and broad taste profile make it suitable for lunches and dinners featuring meats and robust cooking, enhancing a continuous and well-defined aromatic texture.