Volnay-Santenots 1er Cru AOC 2023

A young Pinot Noir that deliberately holds back its fruit to let structure take the lead. Dark, bright cherry red with pale reflections and violet nuances. On the nose, a floral shell of violet, hibiscus and pansy, beneath which lie sweet and sour cherry, redcurrant and cassis, along with plum, rosehip and a touch of liquorice.

Les Santenots is a site on Meursault soil that is classified under Volnay. Its mineral core is unmistakable: stony, chalky, with the cool freshness of wet stone and a hint of cold smoke. The domaine is based in Monthélie, where the Darviot family has held its parcels since the 19th century. Eleven hectares in the Côte de Beaune, seven of them premier cru sites.

Pinot Noir from vines planted in 1927. Pierre-Antonin Darviot, who took over the estate in 2019 at the age of 25, ferments with up to 100 percent whole clusters; the stems lend floral notes and silky tannins. No fining, no filtration, minimal use of sulphur. Biodynamic farming since the handover, organic-certified since 2022. 13.5% vol., dry.

Taut and gripping, carried by a youthful, medium-firm tannin that lines the palate clearly. The pale fruit stays in the background, while black pepper, herbs and earthy nuances come through more distinctly, stretched by a precise acidity. Still compact and dense, in need of air and time. The finish remains finely fruity, peppery and mineral.

With rosé-roasted saddle of venison, braised leg of lamb, boeuf bourguignon, roasted pheasant breast or a mushroom ragout with fresh herbs.

Nearly century-old vines on a site that shares its soil with Meursault and its name with Volnay, harvested and raised by the tenth generation of the Darviot-Perrin house.