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In the world of wine, some names are inherently linked to "elegance" and "terroir." Maison Joseph Drouhin, from Burgundy, France, is undoubtedly one of the most representative families.
Across the Atlantic in Oregon, USA, this family has also taken solid steps towards greatness. Domaine Drouhin Oregon, as the first renowned Burgundy winery to establish itself in Oregon, has consistently produced excellent Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines comparable to the finest Burgundy vintages for thirty years.
Since its inception, the winery has been sought after by global media and wine enthusiasts, with its Pinot Noir frequently rated "outstanding" by Wine Spectator and Robert Parker's Wine Advocate. It is a typical Burgundy-style Pinot Noir; but it is not Cote de Beaune, nor Cote de Nuits: it is the unique Oregon Pinot Noir
The story begins in 1961. Robert Drouhin, the third-generation head of Maison Joseph Drouhin, first tasted Pinot Noir from Oregon's Willamette Valley and was deeply captivated by the land's immense potential. He firmly believed that its cool climate, similar to Burgundy's, was a paradise for Pinot Noir.
This dream wasn't realized until 1987. Robert Drouhin, along with his daughter Véronique Drouhin, who had just graduated with a degree in oenology, purchased their first vineyard in Dundee Hills, officially founding Domaine Drouhin Oregon. The winery's motto perfectly encapsulates their philosophy: "French Soul, Oregon Soil."
In 1988, the winery released its first vintage; in 1989, a modern winery designed with gravity flow technology rose from the hilltop. This was not merely an export of winemaking technology, but also a testament to the Burgundians' ultimate pursuit of terroir.
Today, Véronique is an internationally recognized Master Winemaker, and in 2019 received France's highest honor—the Legion of Honour—in recognition of her outstanding contributions to both Burgundy and Oregon.
Drouhin Oregon's flagship estate is located in the Dundee Hills of the Willamette Valley, spanning 235 acres, with 36.4 hectares of vineyards.
The elevation here ranges from 400 to 800 feet, and the soil, primarily ancient volcanic rock (Jory), is rich in iron and exhibits a distinctive red color. This soil has excellent drainage, forcing the vines to root deeply and draw upon deep minerals, giving the wines a unique elegance and complexity.
In 2013, the Drouhin family went a step further, acquiring the Roserock vineyard in Eola-Amity Hills. This 112-hectare estate (54 hectares of which are vineyards) boasts a cooler climate, producing wines with a more robust structure and vibrant energy. The family cleverly likens the difference between these two terroirs to the contrast between Chambolle-Musigny and Gevrey-Chambertin in Burgundy.
Drouhin Oregon's winemaking philosophy is a tribute to Burgundy tradition and an ultimate respect for nature. The winery employs sustainable and organic farming methods and has obtained "Live Environment for Low Input Viticulture" certification. In the winery, they insist on the gentlest handling methods. 100% hand-harvested grapes are placed in small 25-pound trays to ensure the fruit arrives at the winery intact. The "four-tier gravity flow method" is Drouhin Oregon's proudest feature. Gravity allows the grapes to flow slowly through different levels, avoiding the damage caused by rough pumping and preserving the pure flavors of the fruit to the greatest extent. Traditional "pigeage" and "remontage" techniques are used, resulting in a slow and meticulous fermentation process. The oak barrels used by the winery are all custom-made in Burgundy, sourced from the finest forests in France. Pinot Noir is typically aged for 12-14 months in 20% new barrels.
From a barren land in 1987 to a top-tier winery standing on the world stage, Domaine Drouhin Oregon has proven over thirty years that great terroir combined with generations of winemaking passion can transcend geographical boundaries to create truly moving wines.
If you want to experience the elegance and finesse of Burgundy, yet crave the vibrancy of New World fruits, then start with a bottle of Drouhin Oregon. This is not just a glass of wine, but a moving narrative about family, dreams, and terroir.