Located nearly in the Southern end of the Côte de Beaune, after Chassagne-Montrachet, Santenay is a pretty, quiet village producing lovely red wines from Pinot Noir. It is a rather large appellation, with the vineyards having a more Southerly exposure due to the change of direction of the Côte. The wines produced on this terroir have a remarkably deep red colour and a very firm chewy structure which gives them excellent ability to age. At harvest time, the grapes are hand-picked. They ferment and macerate in open vats for a period of 14 to 18 days, depending on the taste and texture of the wine. The fermentation starts naturally and is conducted in the classical way, forcing the cap down and pumping over the juice. In traditinal fashion, the wines are racked off in the Spring and prior to bottling. Fining is done with egg whites. 

Joseph Drouhin's Santenay has an intense ruby-red colour and the fragrances of cherries, raspberries and truffles. The tannins are usually supple. The finish, medium-long, is extremely pleasant and aromatic. It is a delicious example of Burgundy Pinot Noir, a good value and an excellent accompaniment to all kinds of cuisines.