Vincent Girardin Les Santenots Volnay 2021 750ml
DescriptionVincent Girardin's Les Santenots represents one of Volnay's most intriguing Premier Crus - technically located within Meursault but entitled to the Volnay appellation when planted to Pinot Noir. This unique terroir produces wines of exceptional character, combining Volnay's elegance with additional structure and complexity, beautifully expressed in this challenging but ultimately rewarding 2021 vintage.
The nose opens with remarkable clarity and precision, showcasing the bright, energetic character that defines the vintage. Fresh red cherry and wild strawberry provide the initial impression, quickly joined by darker notes of blackcurrant and plum that hint at Les Santenots' additional power. Floral notes of violet and peony add the classic Volnay perfume, while deeper inhalation reveals complex earth tones - forest floor, truffle, and a distinctive mineral quality reminiscent of iron and wet stones.
On the palate, this wine demonstrates why Les Santenots is considered among Volnay's most complete terroirs. The texture combines the appellation's characteristic silk with unexpected density and concentration. Despite the challenging vintage, Girardin's meticulous work has resulted in impressive depth - flavors of red and black cherry intermingle with notes of blood orange, pomegranate, and exotic spices. The tannins are more substantial than typical Volnay yet remain refined and well-integrated.
What distinguishes Les Santenots is its unique position straddling two great terroirs, and this characteristic is beautifully expressed here. The mid-palate reveals layers of complexity: dark chocolate, espresso, dried herbs, and a savory, almost meaty quality that adds gravitas. Yet the wine maintains Volnay's essential elegance, with the 2021 vintage's natural acidity providing lift and energy. This is a wine that challenges simple categorization, offering something more complete than typical Volnay without sacrificing refinement.
Girardin's approach to this challenging vintage has been to embrace rather than fight its character. The result is a Les Santenots that emphasizes structure and minerality while maintaining impressive fruit purity. This may be a more intellectual expression of the terroir than in warmer vintages, but it offers fascinating insights into what makes this Premier Cru special.
The finish is remarkably long and complex, with waves of fruit, earth, and mineral notes that continue to evolve. This is a wine built for the cellar, though its current balance makes it approachable with appropriate aeration. It pairs magnificently with dishes that bridge elegance and richness - roasted duck, grilled lamb, or wild mushroom preparations would all complement its character. For those seeking to explore Volnay's diversity beyond the typical feminine stereotype, this 2021 Les Santenots from Vincent Girardin provides a compelling example of the appellation's range and potential.
