We have a fantastic under-the-radar find today from Volnay from a new producer we have never offered before, but came highly recommended by a friend in France. 2002 Christophe Thilloux Volnay 1er Cru Les Caillerets comes from a micro-parcel of roughly 0.11 ha in one of Volnay's top premier crus, located mid-slope with prime east-facing exposure featuring shallow, stony limestone with reddish clay that gives lift, delicate spice, and a chalky, mineral line. Thilloux is a small, third-generation family domaine in Volnay (about 4.5 ha) that Christophe has run since 1992, maintaining a more traditional approach to winemaking that pays homage to the old days. Fruit is destemmed, gentle pigeage, fermentation in concrete, and élevage in older barrels to keep oak impact low and terroir definition high. The 2002 red Burgundy vintage is classical and beautifully balanced, so expect red cherry and raspberry, rose and sous-bois, silky tannin, and energetic acidity, drinking perfectly now. It's an incredible buy for premier cru red Burgundy with this much age and ex-domaine sourcing, and is highly recommended!