2022 Vincent Girardin Volnay Vieilles Vignes, Burgundy

Vincent Girardin Volnay Vieilles Vignes is a beautifully balanced and elegant red Burgundy, crafted from old-vine Pinot Noir in the charming village of Volnay in the Côte de Beaune. Known for its refined and expressive wines, Volnay is celebrated for producing Pinot Noir with a delicate interplay of fruit, floral, and mineral characteristics. This wine reflects both the exceptional terroir of Volnay and the meticulous winemaking of Vincent Girardin, a master of crafting Burgundy wines that emphasize purity and finesse.

The grapes for this wine are sourced from vieilles vignes—old vines that are 50 years or older. These mature vines yield smaller quantities of intensely flavored grapes, enhancing the wine’s depth and complexity. The limestone and clay soils of Volnay contribute structure and minerality, while the village’s favorable microclimate ensures a long growing season, allowing the fruit to achieve full ripeness while retaining vibrant acidity.

The winemaking process begins with hand-harvesting and sorting to ensure only the best grapes are used. Fermentation with indigenous yeasts occurs in temperature-controlled tanks to preserve the delicate aromatics and texture of the Pinot Noir. The wine is aged for 14-16 months in French oak barrels, with about 20% new oak, imparting subtle spice and rounding out the wine without dominating its elegant fruit profile.

In the glass, the wine exhibits a brilliant ruby-red color. The nose is enticing and complex, with aromas of fresh red cherries, raspberries, and wild strawberries, complemented by hints of rose petals, crushed herbs, and a touch of forest floor. On the palate, it is medium-bodied and silky, with fine-grained tannins and lively acidity framing flavors of ripe red berries, subtle licorice, and a delicate mineral edge. The finish is long, elegant, and precise, showcasing the wine’s harmony and poise.

Vincent Girardin Volnay Vieilles Vignes is a versatile wine that pairs beautifully with roasted duck, herb-crusted lamb, or dishes featuring mushrooms and truffles. It also complements soft cheeses or lighter fare such as grilled salmon. While enjoyable now with decanting, this wine has the structure to age gracefully for 8-12 years, gaining further complexity over time.