Domaine Nicolas Rossignol : Volnay 1er cru "Mitans" 2021

Tasting characteristics and advice for the Volnay 1er cru "Mitans" 2021 from Domaine Nicolas Rossignol

Tasting

Color

The color shows a red hue characteristic of Burgundian pinot noir.

Nose

The nose reveals fine aromatic complexity with notes of red cherry and red fruits, alongside floral touches reminiscent of violet. Subtle nuances of coffee and smoky notes complete the bouquet, while delicate spicy accents add an extra dimension to the whole.

Palate

On the palate, this wine charms with its silky attack and medium- to full-bodied structure. The tannins are fine, velvety and perfectly integrated, offering an elegant, balanced texture. The palate is supple, fleshy and generous, while delicately integrated acidity brings freshness and definition. The finish stands out for its remarkable length and the persistence of its refined tannins.

Food and wine pairings

This Volnay 1er cru "Mitans" 2021 is an ideal match for refined poultry such as roast guinea fowl with thyme jus or duck with fruit. It also pairs beautifully with red meats in sauce, lightly spiced Mediterranean-inspired dishes, as well as soft-ripened cheeses such as Camembert or Brie. Enthusiasts can also enjoy it with delicate smoked fish.

Serving and cellaring

It is recommended to serve this Volnay 1er cru "Mitans" 2021 at a temperature between 15 and 17°C to fully appreciate its qualities.

An elegant, structured Burgundy pinot noir by Domaine Nicolas Rossignol

The estate

Founded in 1997 by Nicolas Rossignol, the fifth generation of winegrowers in Volnay, Domaine Nicolas Rossignol now covers around seventeen hectares across some thirty appellations in the Côte de Beaune. In 2011, the estate merged with Domaine Rossignol-Jeanniard and moved to Beaune. Trained in Burgundy as well as in South Africa and Bordeaux, Nicolas Rossignol manages his vineyard according to the principles of sustainable, “reasoned” viticulture and biodynamics. The estate stands out for its philosophy of vinifying each parcel separately, producing in particular seven Volnay Premier Crus and eight in Pommard.

The vineyard

The climat Les Mitans takes its name from Old French meaning “middle,” referring to its mid-slope position. Situated at around 250 meters above sea level on a gentle south-east-facing slope, this terroir in Volnay benefits from favorable exposure. The soils have a complex composition combining deep brown clays and around twenty percent limestone gravel, over a depth of 35 to 40 centimeters. The estate’s vines on this parcel were planted in 1952 and 1976, with an average age of around sixty-five years.

The vintage

The 2021 vintage in Burgundy was marked by a devastating spring frost between April 6 and 8, with temperatures dropping to as low as minus eight degrees Celsius. This climatic disaster reduced yields by around sixty percent in the Côte de Beaune. The season continued with relatively cool, damp weather in July and early August, requiring heightened vigilance against downy mildew. Despite these challenging conditions, the resulting wines stand out for exceptional freshness, airy textures, and a classic, balanced profile.

Vinification and aging

The grapes for the Volnay 1er cru "Mitans" 2021 are harvested by hand and placed in small eight-kilogram crates. After rigorous sorting, the bunches are conveyed by belt to the vats. Alcoholic fermentation starts naturally thanks to indigenous yeasts and lasts six to eight days, with daily pump-overs and punch-downs adapted to the conditions of the vintage. The wine is then aged in French oak barrels for ten to twenty months, with 15% new oak, without racking and with extended contact with fine lees. Malolactic fermentation is deliberately delayed by around six months. The wine is bottled without fining or filtration.

Grape variety

100% pinot noir