Thiébault Huber created Domaine Huber-Verdereau in 1994, building on several generations of his family’s work in Volnay, including that of his grandfather Raoul Verdereau. Since 2005, farming has been organic and Demeter-certified biodynamic - a rarity in Burgundy. The work in the cellar is gentle and minimalist, with low SO2 additions.
Les Robardelles is a parcel of 75-year-old vines planted by grandfather Raoul in limestone-rich soils on the south side of Volnay, right next to Meursault. In fact, much of Robardelles is Premier Cru, but a portion of the family’s vines lie outside the Premier Cru part; hence the Volnay village labeling. Fermentation was in stainless steel tank with about a third whole clusters. Élevage was for 12 months in one big barrel of 500 liters. This is an updated, elegant take on old-school Volnay, with a pleasing hint of rusticity and evident soulfulness. Drink it in a large stem (Burgundy, naturally) with any of your favorite Burgundy dishes, including beef bourguignon on a chilly, rainy evening. You certainly can cellar the wine for at least a few years, but it’s so expressive right now that there’s no need to wait.
