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Beaune Premier Cru Cras
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Beaune Cras

Premier Cru

Beaune Premier Cru Cras
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  • Cellaring

    Optimal consumption: 8 to 15 years

    Ageing potential: 20 years

  • Tasting temperature

    16°C (61-62°F)

Grape variety

Pinot Noir

Vineyard

Producing commune: Beaune.

Site: Beaune Premier Cru « Aux Cras » is located northwest of Beaune, on the top of the hill, facing east/south-east.

History & tradition: the name « Cras » comes from the medieval term « crai », describing a stony and limestone soil.
The Romans had already recognized the potential of the hillside overlooking Beaune and planted vines there. Some of the vineyards were separated by small walls and paths which are still extant today.

Soil: clay and limestone.

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Tasting

by Véronique Boss-Drouhin

Beautiful ruby red colour. The nose displays aromas of blackcurrant and blackberry combined with some notes of vanilla. With age and in some vintages, touches of leather will mingle with truffle and spices.

On the palate, the tannins are refined and create a seductive harmony. The aftertaste reveals delicate touches of wood.

Vintage

The brightness and intensity of the 2022 reds are impressive. The nose, of great complexity, combines aromas of blackberry, blueberry and blackcurrant with floral scents of peony and violet. On the palate, the spices underline silky, high-quality tannins. Ample, full-bodied and fresh, these wines are an archetype of balance between aromas and structure with a very real ageing potential.

Vintage review

Winemaking

Supply: this wine comes from grapes and musts purchased from supply partners according to rigorous specifications.

Harvest: grapes harvested by hands in open-work crates. If necessary, a careful sorting is proceeded.

Vinification: total destemming. In accordance with the terroir and the profile of the vintage, we do 2 to 3 weeks of fermentation and maceration in small open vats, marked by punching of the cap and pumping-over. The yeasts are indigenous (natural). Pressing in a vertical press. Separation of the ends of the presses based on tasting.

Ageing:  in oak barrels including 20 to 25% of new barrels.
The ageing lasts between 14 to 16 months.
Origin of the wood: oak grown in French high forest.

Throughout the ageing process, decisions are taken only after careful tasting evaluation. The data obtained is completed through technical analysis. As with every other Joseph Drouhin wine, absolute priority is given to the true expression of terroir and character of the vintage.