Wines Volnay Domaine Bellene - Les Grands Poisots - 2023

Viniou Reviews

Domaine Bellene’s Volnay AOC Cuvée Les Grands Poisots 2023 is a fine example of Burgundian Pinot Noir, hailing from the renowned Côte de Beaune subregion. Made exclusively from Pinot Noir grapes, this young yet expressive vintage captures the elegance and finesse characteristic of Volnay. The terroir plays a significant role, with well-drained limestone and marl soils imparting minerality and freshness to the wine. The 2023 vintage saw a favourable growing season, resulting in ripe, healthy grapes, and Domaine Bellene, known for its craftsmanship and sustainable vineyard management, pays close attention to gentle extraction and ageing, which enables the wine’s delicate aromas and supple tannins to shine through.

Volnay as an appellation is often celebrated for producing some of Burgundy’s most graceful reds, noted for their purity and silken texture. The region benefits from a temperate, semi-continental climate, providing enough warmth for ripening Pinot Noir without loss of its finesse. Soils, rich in limestone and clay, produce wines that are supple, aromatic and particularly charming in their youth, yet also capable of ageing gracefully. Volnay has a storied history, long recognised by Burgundy admirers for its refined and fragrant red wines, contrasting with the more robust styles of neighbouring Pommard.

When it comes to food pairing, the elegance of this Volnay makes it extraordinarily versatile. Classic Burgundian dishes such as coq au vin or duck breast with cherry sauce are excellent choices, as the wine’s delicate fruit and refined acidity complement the richness and subtle sweetness of these dishes. Mushroom-based risottos or roasted root vegetables are also particularly well-suited, and the wine’s gentle tannins allow it to pair beautifully with semi-hard cheeses like Comté or Tomme de Savoie. For a truly local match, try it with a poulet de Bresse roasted with fresh herbs.

To fully appreciate the aromatics and silken structure of this Cuvée Les Grands Poisots, serve at a temperature between 15-17°C. Decanting for 30 minutes will allow its subtle floral and red fruit notes to fully express themselves, making for a delightful tasting experience.