Domaine Michel Lafarge Volnay Premier Cru Les Mitans

Wine Information
Size: 0.39 ha (0.96 ac)
Variety: Pinot Noir
Vine Age: Planted in 1952, 1976
Terroir: Gentle slope facing southeast. Soils are moderately deep, brown clay on limestone bedrock. 250-meters elevation.
Viticulture: Certified organic (Ecocert) and biodynamic (Demeter)
Vinification: 100% de-stemmed, whole grape fermentation, indigenous yeast fermentation, 15% new oak, unfined, unfiltered.

Etymology: Mitans comes from the ancient French word Mitan, meaning “middle, center.” 

Source: The Climats and Lieux-Dits of the Great Vineyards of Burgundy, Marie-Hélène Landrieu-Lussigny.

Site: Les Mitans sits downslope from the small village of Volnay. It is located at approximately 250-meters elevation. The vineyard lies on a low, gentle slope that faces just south of east. Even though Les Mitans lies in the direct path of a small combe to the west, Frédéric does not believe that the vineyard experiences much influence from it—possibly due to its distance down the slope.

Soil: The soil is approximately 35-40 cm deep. The soil is deep brown in color with a dense, clay-rich texture. The brown color indicates that the soil is not rich in iron, which is a notable difference from other great vineyards of Volnay, such as Caillerets and Clos de Chênes. Approximately 20% of the surface is covered in small (gravel to cobble-sized) limestone stones. The stones in the vineyard are poorly sorted indicate some alluvial influence. 

Lafarge Parcel: The vines in the Lafarge parcel are approximately 65 years old. The vines are planted downslope to the east. 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.