2022 Domaine Michel Lafarge Volnay 1er Cru “Mitans”, Burgundy, France

ABOUT THIS WINE

Pinot Noir planted in 1952 and 1976. The vineyard sits on a gentle slope facing southeast. Soils are moderately deep, brown clay on limestone bedrock. 250-meters elevation. 100% de-stemmed, whole grape fermentation, indigenous yeast fermentation, 15% new oak, unfined, unfiltered. Frédéric points out that the clay-rich soils of Les Mitans are surprisingly light and “springy” when stepped on, a factor he strongly attributes to biodynamic farming. He also believes that the final wine reflects this springiness in its freshness, femininity, and balance between clay and stone influences. Certified organic (Ecocert) and biodynamic (Demeter).

ABOUT THIS PRODUCER

Domaine Lafarge was run for the last 60 years by the legendary Michel Lafarge. Frédéric, his son, starting in 1978.  As of 2018, they have been joined by the next generation, Clothilde Lafarge, daughter of Frédéric and Chantal.

This domaine is famous for producing some of the greatest traditional Volnays, from biodynamic farmed vineyards.The domaine traces its history back to the early 19th century, the iconic Clos du Château des Ducs having been bought in 1900 by Michel Lafarge’s father. The first wines bottled at the domaine in 1934 included Clos des Chênes, the domaine’s largest Volnay premier cru holding and one of the village’s flagships.  The domaine consists of over 11.6 hectares under vine, most of them in Volnay and Beaune, including a 0.9 hectares holding of Clos des Chênes and many top 1er cru vineyards in the appellation.

The vinification is traditional with 100% destemed grapes, and the elevage is done using very low percentage of new oak (around 5%) and are famous for their great transparency of their respective teroirs.  Michel and Frédéric converted to biodynamic viticulture in 1996 and the domaine is now at the forefront of the movement