Pinot Noir
75cl * 13% ABV * Burgundy, France
Rather remarkably, the Roblet family can trace their roots in Volnay to the 1600s. Theirs is a tiny 6-hectare plot of densely planted Pinot Noir vines producing extremely low yields. The paterfamilias – Pascal – has been practising biodynamic farming since 1997 and only uses the tiniest spritz of sulphur for preservative purposes at bottling. The St Francois is a blend of several parcels that include Premier Cru fruit, all of which is aged in 15% new oak – the result is a sappy, hauntingly expressive Pinot Noir with notes of dark cherry, raspberry, wood spice and herbs. Soft and silky on the palate it is well into its stride in 2021, but will have enough stuffing to age gracefully for another five years at least.