Domaine Bitouzet-Prieur Volnay Clos des Chênes 1er Cru 2021

This Volnay is silky-smooth with moderate, caressing tannins, fresh acidity and a precise, lingering finish, so it works best with dishes in the same elegant weight class rather than anything heavy and powerful. The soft tannins and the fresh acidity cut nicely through fat from poultry and pork without seeming harsh, and the red berries play up against dishes with a little sweetness from mushrooms or berry accompaniments. Pinot Noir is moreover the most cheese-loving of the reds, so aged sheep's and cow's milk cheeses suit the wine beautifully with their richness and nutty depth. A touch of earthiness in the food, such as mushrooms or mild charcuterie, captures the wine's discreet minerality.