Coche-Dury

History of the Coche-Dury estate

The Coche-Dury Domain has its roots in the early 20th century, founded by Jean-François Coche's grandfather. It wasn't until after the interwar period, in the 1960s, that the domain truly began to take flight. Georges Coche, Jean-François's father, initiated a radical change by marketing the wine in bottles rather than in bulk.

In 1975, Jean-François Coche officially took over the family domaine and married Odile Dury, thus forming the Coche-Dury Domain. He chose to perfect the quality of the wines rather than expand the plots. This meticulous work led to worldwide recognition of the domaine, particularly for its white wines, which represent the purest expression of Chardonnay. In 2010, after spending decades elevating the domaine to the pinnacle, Jean-François passed the torch to his son Raphaël, who brilliantly perpetuates this quest for excellence.

Terroirs and Vineyards of the Coche-Dury estate

The domaine extends over 10.5 hectares, of which 9 are located in Meursault, one of the most renowned appellations for Chardonnay. In addition to its plots in Meursault, the domaine owns vineyards in Pommard, Auxey-Duresses, Puligny-Montrachet, and on the Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru.

The secret to the quality of Coche-Dury Domaine wines lies in its rigorous approach to viticulture. Raphaël Coche, at the helm of the domaine since 2010, has opted for a return to manual ploughing and a reduction in yields, thus ensuring the concentration and purity of the grapes. Respect for the terroir, combined with the age of the vines (some dating back to the 1950s), gives the domain's wines a unique depth and complexity.

The domaine is committed to environmentally respectful agriculture. No pesticides are used, and the soils are ploughed to maintain a natural balance. These exemplary viticultural practices allow for the capture of the true essence of Burgundian terroirs.

Vinification at the Coche-Dury estate

Vinification at the Coche-Dury Domaine is a traditional process, marked by meticulous attention to detail. After harvest, the grapes are gently pressed to avoid any aggressive extraction. Fermentation takes place in oak barrels, a portion of which is renewed each year, but without excess, so as not to dominate the natural aromas of the wine.

The white wines are aged on lees for about 18 to 22 months, a process that preserves freshness while developing a rich and complex texture. This lees ageing is one of the domain's signatures, bringing characteristic toasted and mineral notes, particularly appreciated in great vintages such as the Corton-Charlemagne.

The red wines, although less known than the whites, also benefit from oak barrel ageing, with a lower proportion of new wood. These wines, primarily made from Pinot Noir, are elegant, fresh, and balanced, offering impressive ageing potential.

The Cuvées of the Coche-Dury estate

The Coche-Dury Domaine produces a varied range of wines, covering several prestigious Burgundy appellations. Here's an overview of the cuvées:

White wines:

Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru: A legendary wine with exceptional mineral structure, offering incredible persistence.

Meursault 1er Cru Perrières: Considered one of the greatest expressions of Meursault, with unmatched complexity and finesse.

Meursault 1er Cru Genévrières: A luminous wine, marked by citrus aromas and a dense texture.

Meursault 1er Cru Caillerets: A rare and refined cuvée, with notes of ripe fruits and beautiful minerality.

Meursault Les Rougeots: This single-vineyard Meursault is characterised by aromatic precision and good ageing capacity.

Meursault Chevalières: A subtle cuvée, offering a perfect balance between fruit and acidity.

Puligny-Montrachet Les Enseignères: A wine from one of Burgundy's most prestigious appellations, with great purity and superb length on the palate.

Red wines:

Volnay 1er Cru: A refined Pinot Noir, combining elegance and depth.

Pommard Vaumuriens: A powerful and structured wine, with good ageing potential.

Monthélie: A balanced cuvée, with supple tannins and fresh red fruit aromas.

Auxey-Duresses: A subtle and delicate wine, perfect for extended ageing.

Here is a list of exceptional vintages to watch out for for Coche-Dury Domain wine enthusiasts : 1989, 1992, 1996, 2002, 2005, 2010, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2020...

These vintages are renowned for their quality and their ability to improve with time. Some, like 1989 or 2010, are considered absolute references in the domain's history.

If you are passionate about Burgundy wines, other estates to discover are Arnaud Ente, Comtes Lafon, De Montille, Domaine Leflaive, Dujac, Etienne Sauzet, Joseph Drouhin, and Leroy, which are recognised for their exceptional white wines. These domains share a philosophy of respect for terroir and a constant quest for quality, but each estate brings a unique expression of Chardonnay.

The Coche-Dury Domaine is a hidden treasure of Burgundy, producing some of the most sought-after wines in the world. Thanks to rigorous viticulture, precise vinification, and a passion for excellence, the domain's wines offer an unparalleled sensory experience. Whether you are a lover of great white wines or a discerning collector, the cuvées of the Coche-Dury Domaine are must-haves to add to your cellar.