Volnay AOC 1er Cru Santenots du Milieu 2023 François Mikulski

What kind of wine is it

Volnay Santenots du Milieu Premier Cru by François Mikulski is a Pinot Noir from the Côte de Beaune in Burgundy. This wine stands out for its elegant style, harmonious structure, and freshness that supports its drinkability. The grapes come from two family plots planted in 1947 and 1976, grown on highly suitable soils. Vinification takes place in vats, while aging in oak barrels adds complexity and aging potential, offering a precise and deep profile typical of Premier Cru areas.

Where does it come from

The Santenots du Milieu cru is located in Volnay, in the Côte de Beaune, a renowned area of Burgundy. The vineyards are situated on highly suitable soils, and a temperate climate with significant temperature variations helps define the elegance, finesse, and mineral profile characteristic of this side of the region.

How it's produced

Fermentation takes place in vats for 15-17 days, ensuring balanced extraction of color and tannins. Maturation continues for at least 14 months in oak barrels, with about 35% new wood. The process avoids heavy filtration and invasive fining, preserving the purity and freshness of the fruit.

Tasting notes

In the glass, it shows an intense ruby red color with purple highlights. The bouquet is complex, offering notes of ripe cherry, wild blackberry, black pepper, and hints of liquorice, tobacco, and dark chocolate. On the palate, the entry is fresh and linear, with silky tannins and well-integrated acidity leading to a persistent finish with fruity and spicy nuances.

Food pairings

This Pinot Noir pairs well with grilled red meats, braised dishes, and game. It enhances dishes such as peppered beef fillet, braised wild boar leg, and coq au vin. For first courses, it goes well with risottos with radicchio and porcini mushrooms, pappardelle with venison ragout, and beef tartare with horseradish. Its structure and freshness also make it suitable for soft cheeses like Reblochon or Brie, highlighting the complexity of flavors.

When to serve it

It is recommended to serve between 16 and 18 °C in large glasses to encourage aeration. It is best to uncork the bottle shortly before serving and allow it to breathe for about thirty minutes, releasing its aromatic bouquet. Thanks to its aging potential, it is expected to develop well over time with evolution towards notes of leather and undergrowth. Ideal for elegant occasions or thoughtful tastings.