2016 Volnay Clos des Chenes
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
The 2016 Volnay Clos des Chênes 1er Cru has a broody, slightly reduced bouquet, although there is plenty of fruit coiled up inside. It just needs time. The palate is very well balanced with supple tannins, slightly meaty in style, complex with a savoury finish. It does lack the purity and finesse of its peers, yet it remains a pleasurable Volnay to enjoy over the next 15 years. Tasted blind at the 2016 Burgfest tasting in Burgundy.
Critic scores
Average Score
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
Neal Martin
More reviews and scores
The 2016 Volnay Clos des Chênese 1er Cru was suffering some bottle shock on the nose however, the palate bodes well with plenty of sappy red fruit struck through with a fine line of acidity. There is just a light sprinkle of spice on the chalky-textured finish that lingers nicely in the mouth. It will require a year or two to coalesce but I strongly suspect that it will turn into a fine Clos des Chênes.
Light to mid cherry red. Sweeter red fruit than on the village Volnay. Light in tannic texture, plenty of freshness and sufficient fruit to balance both. Lithe and fresh but pretty dry overall. (JH)