Red dry
F. Mikulski Volnay 1er Cru Santenots du Milieu 2023 – an exceptional red Burgundy that captures the elegance of Volnay and the depth of Meursault — two worlds that meet in one of the most renowned Premier Cru vineyards of the Côte de Beaune. This is a wine where ‘Pinot Noir’ takes on a silky structure, refined power, and aromatic richness characteristic of the finest Santenots plots.
The grapes come from the Santenots du Milieu vineyard, located in the Meursault commune but classified as Volnay Premier Cru. The soils — a perfect blend of clay and limestone — provide harmony between fruit and structure. The 2023 vintage, marked by warm yet balanced conditions, allowed the grapes to ripen fully while retaining natural freshness, resulting in a wine brimming with energy, precision, and transparency.
The bouquet opens with raspberry, cherry, and red currant aromas, enriched by notes of rose petals, licorice, subtle spices, and damp earth. With age, the wine reveals forest mushroom, tobacco leaf, and a hint of smoke, adding Burgundian depth and complexity.
On the palate, it is delicately tannic, textural, and expressive. The flavor balances the sweetness of ripe red fruits, floral tones, and a backbone of precise acidity. The finish is long, pure, and mineral, maintaining both elegance and brightness — a wine that seems to pulse with Volnay’s aristocratic grace.
Fermentation takes place in stainless steel vats using indigenous yeasts, followed by 12–14 months of aging in French oak barrels, about 25–30% new. This adds a subtle layer of spice without overshadowing the pure, aromatic expression of ‘Pinot Noir’.
Serving temperature: 16–17 °C. Pairs well with duck breast with cherry sauce, roast veal with mushrooms, or Comté cheese.
François Mikulski, the son of a Polish émigré, manages his winery in Chassagne-Montrachet and has turned his unusual surname for the region into an advantage. His wines stand out not only in taste but also in appearance – the winemaker's name, surname, and vineyard are simply written in white paint, like chalk, on a plain, monochromatic bottle. Since the family winery is located in the Meursault area, he primarily specializes in producing brightly flavored white wines bearing the village's name.
Aiming to preserve the inherent characteristics of the growing site and grape variety, François Mikulski employs organic winemaking methods. His wines are expressive, boast exceptional balance, and are enjoyable both fresh and aged.
The family currently manages 9 hectares of vineyards, three-quarters of which are dedicated to white grape varieties. The remaining just over 2 hectares are planted with ‘Pinot Noir’ grapes. Among them are also less famous but distinctive vineyards in Chassagne, Meursault, and Pommard.
After a meticulous sorting of bunches during harvest, grapes are destemmed and gently pressed using a pneumatic press. Natural yeasts are used for fermentation.
Aging in barrels lasts 10–12 months. To ensure the oak doesn't overshadow the vineyard's inherent flavor, François uses no more than 20% new barrels.
