Volnay

Volnay Burgundy Wine

History: Volnay, an illustrious appellation in the Côte de Beaune, Burgundy, has a rich history dating back several centuries. The village of Volnay has been intimately connected to viticulture since the Middle Ages. Wine production in this region has been cultivated and perfected over generations, contributing to the esteemed reputation of the appellation. Volnay wines have long been recognized for their elegance, finesse, and the unique expression of their terroir.

Terroir: The terroir of Volnay plays a central role in defining the character of its wines. The vineyards are located on the east side of the Côte de Beaune, offering an ideal location for the cultivation of Pinot Noir, the primary grape variety in Volnay. The soils are diverse, composed of limestone, marl, and clay. These complex soils, combined with the varied slopes and exposures of the vineyards, contribute to the nuanced flavors and textures found in Volnay wines.

Climate: Volnay experiences a typical continental climate of Burgundy. The climate is characterized by relatively cool temperatures, with sometimes cold winters and warm summers. This climatic profile is well-suited for the slow and steady ripening of Pinot Noir grapes, allowing them to develop complex aromas while maintaining good acidity.

Grape Varieties: Volnay is renowned for its red wines, and the main grape variety cultivated in the region is Pinot Noir. Pinot Noir thrives in the specific climatic conditions and soils of Volnay, producing wines known for their delicacy, aromatic finesse, and vibrant red fruit flavors. The Pinot Noir grapes from Volnay reflect the subtleties of the terroir, and local winemakers are careful to preserve the intrinsic qualities of the grape.

Winemaking Traditions: Winemaking traditions in Volnay are deeply rooted in a profound understanding of the vineyards and an appreciation for the subtleties of Pinot Noir. Winemakers use traditional Burgundian winemaking techniques, including meticulous grape sorting, fermentation in open wooden vats, and aging in French oak barrels. These practices aim to preserve the purity of the fruit and allow the unique terroir to shine through.

Premier Cru Vineyards: Volnay is home to several Premier Cru vineyards, each contributing its own characteristics to the wines. Some notable Premier Cru sites in Volnay include Clos des Chênes, Champans, Santenots, and Taillepieds. These vineyards often produce wines with increased complexity, a solid structure, and high aging potential.

Profile of Volnay Wines

Volnay wines are celebrated for their elegance and refinement. They often present a delicate ruby red color in the glass. On the nose, aromas of red fruits such as cherry and raspberry are common, accompanied by floral and sometimes spicy notes. In the mouth, the wines are distinguished by a harmonious balance of fruit, acidity, and silky tannins, resulting in wines that are accessible in their youth but also capable of aging gracefully.

Colour (Robe): Delicate ruby red, evolving towards garnet nuances with aging.

Nose: Complex and enchanting, with dominant red fruit aromas, underscored by delicate floral notes. Spicy and sometimes woody nuances from oak aging may be perceived.

Palate: Distinguished by elegance and balance. The texture is often silky, with delicate tannins providing a sense of finesse. The combination of lively acidity and a light structure imparts a characteristic freshness. Persistent flavors of red fruits, accompanied by subtle mineral notes, contribute to a harmonious tasting experience.

Finesse and Grace: Volnay wines are renowned for their finesse and grace, expressing the delicacy of Pinot Noir in this privileged region.

Youthful Accessibility: The wines are often enjoyable in their youth, allowing enthusiasts to appreciate their elegance without waiting for extended aging periods.

Aging Potential: While delightful when young, Volnay wines have significant aging potential. Over time, they gain complexity, developing deeper aromas and a velvety texture.

Wines from specific crus in Volnay, such as Premier Crus, often demonstrate superior aromatic intensity and a robust structure. Sites like Clos des Chênes, Santenots, and Taillepieds are prized for their unique characteristics.

When to Drink a Volnay Wine?

The optimal period to enjoy a Volnay wine depends on the specific style of the wine, the vintage, and the personal preferences of the taster. However, here are some general guidelines on when to drink a Volnay wine:

Youth: Volnay wines are often delightful in their youth. Their fresh fruitiness and softer tannins make them enjoyable to drink relatively soon after bottling. Enthusiasts who appreciate the vibrancy of the fruit and a certain freshness may enjoy Volnay wines in the first few years after harvest.

Intermediate Maturation: Some tasters prefer to wait until the wines reach a certain intermediate maturity, typically around 5 to 10 years after harvest. At this stage, aromas and flavors begin to evolve, showing more complexity while retaining a certain freshness.

Long-Term Aging: Volnay wines, especially those from Premier Crus or exceptional vintages, can age for several decades. For those seeking a more evolved tasting experience with tertiary aromas, a velvety texture, and greater complexity, it may be wise to wait 10 years or more before opening a bottle.

Case by Case: It is essential to consider the specificities of each vintage. Some vintages may reach their peak more quickly, while others will benefit from a longer aging period. Some tasters prefer to explore the full range, opening bottles at different stages of their evolution to appreciate the diversity of flavor profiles.

Ultimately, the ideal time to drink a Volnay wine depends on individual taste preferences. Some appreciate the freshness and vivacity of young wines, while others prefer the more complex and evolved characteristics of older wines. It is often recommended to taste a bottle at different stages of its evolution to discover the diversity of pleasures it can offer.

Pairing with Volnay Wine

Volnay wines pair perfectly with delicate dishes, highlighting their elegance. They are ideal with poultry, refined white meats, and even vegetarian dishes with subtle flavors. Soft cheeses and mushrooms also complement these wines well.

What are the prices for a Volnay?

The price of a bottle of Volnay can vary considerably depending on several factors such as the producer, vintage, classification (Village, Premier Cru, Grand Cru), the winemaker's reputation, and the place of purchase. Here is a general price range for Volnay wines:

Volnay Village: Wines from Volnay Village, originating from vineyards within the commune, are generally more affordable. Prices can start around 20 to 40 euros per bottle, but this depends on the producer and vintage.

Volnay Premier Cru: Wines from Volnay Premier Cru, sourced from vineyard plots classified as Premier Cru, are more complex and may have superior aging potential. Prices typically range from 50 to 150 euros per bottle, or even more depending on the winemaker's renown.

Volnay Grand Cru: While there are a few rare parcels classified as Grand Cru in Volnay, most Grand Crus are found in other parts of the Côte de Beaune. Prices for Volnay Grand Cru can exceed 200 euros per bottle, or much more, depending on rarity and quality.

Parker WA Scores for Volnay and the Best Vintages of Volnay

The best vintages in Volnay are as follows: 1964, 1971, 1978, 2001, 2002, 2005, 2009, 2010, 2012, 2015, 2019, and 2020.

According to the Robert Parker Wine Advocate guide, many Volnay wines have received excellent scores out of 100, especially in recent vintages:

2012: Domaine Leroy Volnay 1er Cru Les Santenots du Milieu: 93-95/100; Domaine Michel Lafarge Volnay 1er Cru Clos des Chênes: 94/100

2019: Domaine Michel Laffarge Volnay 1er Cru Clos du Château des Ducs: 95-97/100; Domaine Marquis d’Angerville Volnay 1er Cru Clos des Ducs: 94-96/100; Domaine Jean-Marc et Thomas Bouley Volnay 1er Cru Clos des Chênes: 95/100

2020: Domaine Marquis d'Angerville Volnay 1er Cru Clos des Ducs: 95+/100; Domaine Michel Lafarge Volnay 1er Cru Clos des Chênes: 94-96/100; Domaine Coche-Dury Volnay 1er Cru: 93+/100

2021: Domaine Jean-Marc & Thomas Bouley Volnay 1er Cru Les Caillerets: 96/100; Domaine Yvon Clerget Volnay 1er Cru Les Caillerets: 94/100

Best producers of Volnay Wines 

Discover our Burgundy wines from Volnay available online such as Michel Lafarge, Pousse d'Or, de Montille, Marquis d'Angerville but also Coche Dury, Comtes Lafon, Comte Armand, Domaine Leroy, Fontaine Gagnard, Henri Boillot, Joseph Voillot, La Vougeraie, Vincent Bouzereau etc… Purchasing Volnay wines is possible on Vins & Millesimes and choosing a wine has never been easier! Discover our incredible selection of the greatest Volnay and treat yourself with exceptional bottles