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It is a real treat for us to be able to present this wine and its wine maker. We have known Nicolas Potel for many years now. He began his wine-making career with formal oenological studies and internships in Australia and California (Moss Wood, Mount Mary and Dilinger). In returning to Burgundy, he worked in Volnay with his father, Gérard Potel, who was founder, manager and associate of the Domaine de la Pousse d'Or. They were widely known as some of the "crème de la crème" in the Côte de Beaune, and particularly in the village of Volnay. The father and son team started a supplementary activity of negociant* in 1996. When his father passed away in 1997, Nicolas decided to leave the Domaine de la Pousse d'Or, Volnay and the Côte de Beaune. He moved to Nuits St Georges and concentrated his energy on the negociant activity, and has quickly established himself, at 30 years of age, as one of the latest and greatest minds in quality Burgundy.
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Now a little background on the wine from Nicolas.1996 is categorized as one of the best years in recent memory - right up there with 1990. The flowering went quickly in June, then the summer gave just enough rain, but not too much, just enough sun, but not too much. For lack of a better description - perfect conditions! And, to top it off, the harvest took place under sunny skies! The grapes were wonderfully healthy, plus great sugar and acidity levels gave a recipe for great, concentrated and ageable wine.
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The terroir of Volnay is known for its elegance. For this Volnay 1996, we recommend airing it in a carafe if you can, or open it an hour or so before serving. This will bring softness and smooth the edges the tannins from this powerful vintage. An additional way to soften the tannins without overpowering the elegance of Volnay is to serve it with delicate meat with sauce; duck or Cornish game hen. You can also soften the tannins by letting this age 3 to 5 years in a good cellar.
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* A negociant buys grapes, must (grape juice) or bottles of wine from other vineyard owners. This practice is becoming more and more common in Burgundy since there are no possibilities to purchase land.
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