2001 Robert Ampeau et Fils Volnay Santenots 1er Cru

BY ERIC GUIDO | MAY 26, 2020

As we look through the top Premier and Grand Crus of red Burgundy, the one appellation that I feel delivers a top-level experience at prices that remain reasonable is Volnay. When you couple this with the late-releasing house of Robert Ampeau, and their Premier Cru Santenots, we are really treated to something special. Santenots delivers a powerful expression of Volnay, which needs time to mature and show at its best. Luckily, the Ampeau family continues the tradition of holding these wines in their cellar for release when they believe they’re ready to drink. At almost twenty years old, the 2001 Santenots is simply gorgeous and perfectly mature.  

A mix of dark ripe fruits, cherries, strawberry, plum, rich brown spice, moist soil and savory overtones give the 2001 Volnay Santenots 1er Cru remarkable aromatic depth. On the palate, the 2001 is soft and enveloping, with a nervy citrus/mineral edge driving the dark fruit. The finish is long, with residual acids and inner floral tones that linger. 93/Drink 2020-2025.