
Summary
Domaine Coche-Dury, nestled in the celebrated region of Burgundy in France, is heralded as one of the most esteemed and venerated wine producers in the world. Renowned for its extraordinary Chardonnays from the Côte de Beaune, particularly those from Meursault, the winery has been a leading light in Burgundy's viticultural landscape. The domaine's meticulous attention to detail and commitment to quality is evident in every bottle that bears its name.
The winery's lineage can be traced back to the 1920s, but it was under the guidance of Jean-François Coche, who began working in the domaine in 1964, that Coche-Dury ascended to the upper echelons of wine connoisseurs' must-haves. Today, his son Raphaël Coche, who assumed control in 1998, continues the family's legacy of winemaking excellence with his mother, Charline, by his side. Raphaël's tenure represents a tender balance of preserving time-honored techniques while embracing modern sensibilities to ensure the ongoing preeminence of the domaine.
Coche-Dury's vineyards are meticulously tended with almost obsessive care, resulting in low yields of exceptionally concentrated grapes. This commitment to quality over quantity is a hallmark of the domaine's philosophy. The vineyards are treated with sustainable practices, aimed at maintaining the health of the vines and the soil, eschewing the use of pesticides, and employing organic treatments wherever possible.
The winery's portfolio comprises a range of white Burgundies that are the epitome of finesse and complexity. The Meursault wines, including their highly sought-after Perrières, Caillerets, and Rougeots, are the crowning jewels of the domaine, expressing the full potential of each vineyard site. These wines are lauded for their precision, richness, minerality, and capacity to age gracefully over decades.
Domaine Coche-Dury's winemaking approach is characterized by a meticulous, almost artisanal, vinification process. Fermentation occurs with indigenous yeasts, and the wines are aged in oak barrels, a portion of which are new, but always carefully calibrated to ensure the wood never overshadows the purity of the fruit. The wines are then bottled with minimal intervention to preserve the integrity and nuance of the terroir.
Visiting the domaine itself presents a discreet, almost understated experience, mirroring its philosophy that the wines should speak for themselves. The Coche family prefers to remain out of the limelight, dedicating their energy to the vineyards and cellars rather than self-promotion. As such, appointments are necessary and are usually reserved for long-standing clients and industry professionals, making a visit to Domaine Coche-Dury a coveted and exclusive encounter.
In tasting notes, one often encounters descriptors for Coche-Dury's wines such as "honeyed," "nutty," and "buttery," alongside "lime," "green apple," and the hallmark "gunflint" or "steely" minerality. The texture can be described as rich yet refined, with an almost paradoxical combination of power and elegance.
In summary, Domaine Coche-Dury's reputation is built on the unwavering commitment to expressing the distinctive characteristics of its terroir, a relentless pursuit of quality, and a deep respect for tradition. The wines, albeit rare and expensive, are a testament to the art of Burgundian winemaking and a must-try for enthusiasts seeking the pinnacle of Chardonnay.