Viniou Reviews
The Domaine La Croix Montjoie’s “Cuvée L’élégante” 2021 from Volnay AOC is a rather rare example of a white wine from this renowned Burgundy appellation, predominantly celebrated for its red Pinot Noir. This particular bottling showcases either Chardonnay or, less commonly, Aligoté grapes, expressing a unique take on the esteemed Côte de Beaune style. The 2021 vintage reflects a year with cool spring conditions and some frost, resulting in lower yields but wines of remarkable finesse and aromatic intensity. The wine is likely crafted with minimal intervention, gentle pressing and careful ageing, preserving the vivid fruit and mineral freshness typical of Burgundy whites.
Volnay itself sits within the heart of the Côte de Beaune, an area famed for its limestone-rich soils and gentle slopes. While Volnay is traditionally revered for reds, several climats allow the Chardonnay grape to thrive, benefiting from the drainage, mineral content, and nuanced microclimates. The generally continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers, allows for gradual ripening, retaining acidity and fostering considerable complexity. Centuries of winemaking tradition in this region show a true commitment to expressing place and grape variety with precision and grace.
For food pairing, this Volnay white will shine alongside delicate poultry dishes such as chicken in a cream and morel sauce, or classic Burgundian recipes like pike-perch with beurre blanc. Its minerality and freshness would elevate seafood such as scallops or poached trout, and it will also complement soft cheeses like Chaource or goat’s cheese from the Loire. Avoid overly spicy or heavily seasoned dishes so as not to mask its subtlety.
For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine between 10 and 12°C. A brief decanting may allow its floral and citrus aromatics to unfold more readily. Use a tulip-shaped white wine glass, and savour its layered texture and refined finish over the course of an evening.
