Vincent Girardin : Volnay 1er cru "Les Santenots" 2023

Characteristics and tasting notes for the Volnay 1er Cru "Les Santenots" 2023 by Vincent Girardin

Tasting

Colour
This French red wine reveals a deep ruby hue, enhanced by delicate violet nuances.

Nose
The aromatic bouquet opens with vivid notes of red berries, dominated by strawberry and raspberry. Subtle spicy touches and a delicate oakiness intertwine, before evolving towards more complex nuances of leather and undergrowth upon aeration.

Palate
The palate seduces from the outset with its suavity and elegance. The texture is round and generous, perfectly supported by remarkably fine, silky-grained tannins. The finish lingers with remarkable persistence.

Food and wine pairing

This wine pairs wonderfully with roasted red meats, such as prime rib or filet mignon. It also enhances rich poultry dishes like duck with cherries, feathered game such as quail, and mushroom-based dishes. As for cheese, it pairs perfectly with soft washed-rind cheeses or pressed cheeses like Gruyère.

Service and storage

To fully appreciate this Volnay 1er Cru "Les Santenots" 2023, it is recommended to serve it at a temperature between 10 and 13°C. This wine can be cellared away from light and will drink optimally until around 2032.

The elegance and complexity of a great Burgundy wine crafted by Vincent Girardin

The estate

Founded in 1980 by Vincent Girardin with just two hectares of vines, the eponymous estate has become an essential reference in Burgundy. Based in Meursault, the estate now spans around thirty hectares, cultivated biodynamically. Since 2012, the estate has belonged to the Compagnie des Vins d'Autrefois, currently chaired by Jean-Pierre Nié. Under the technical direction of Éric Germain, the house of Vincent Girardin continues a philosophy centred on the authentic expression of terroir, producing wines renowned for their precision and outstanding quality.

The vineyard

Although it carries the Volnay appellation, the Santenots climat is geographically located in the neighbouring commune of Meursault. Facing east and situated on the mid-slope, the vines - averaging 69 years old - thrive on soils composed of brown marl scattered with small stones, resting on a limestone bedrock. The vineyard is trained using the Guyot pruning method and is certified biodynamic, ensuring deep respect for the ecosystem.

The vintage

The year 2023 began with a particularly mild winter, leading to early budbreak in late March. A sun-filled spring encouraged rapid flowering in May. Summer then brought intense heat and significant water stress, considerably accelerating berry ripening. Cooler nights towards the end of the cycle fortunately helped preserve a fine freshness ahead of a particularly early harvest.

Winemaking and ageing

The grapes destined for this Volnay 1er Cru "Les Santenots" 2023 are hand-harvested and rigorously sorted. Destemmed at 85%, the harvest is transferred into vats by gravity before a three-day cold maceration. Fermentation starts naturally with indigenous yeasts, punctuated by two daily punch-downs. After malolactic fermentation, the wine is aged on fine lees for 14 months, without racking, in French oak barrels (30% of which are new, lightly toasted). Bottling is carried out by gravity, with very light filtration and no fining.

Grape variety

100% Pinot Noir