Domaine Robert Ampeau et Fils Volnay 1er Cru Santenots

During his lifetime, Robert Ampeau was a Burgundy legend and his wines were bought not only by Burgundy lovers but also by some of the region’s best-known figures. Those included Aubert de Villaine formerly of DRC and Madame Lalou Bize-Leroy. He was an arch traditionalist, yet also a pioneer, being one of the first to plant cover crops in the vineyard. The domaine has 10 hectares in some of the finest locations – Premiers and Grands Crus – and is renowned for some of the finest wines of Burgundy, never released until Robert believed a wine was ready. No wonder his six cellars were stacked high. His son, Michel, is winemaker now and we are delighted to have secured this superb mature vintage, still tasting ripe and fresh thanks to the cold cellars. This is a Côte de Beaune of regal proportions, built on a very fine structure, now entering it’s peak period. Darker fruits, and beautiful mineral freshness dominate the palate. Very long on the finish.