2011 - Volnay 1er Cru Clos des Ducs, Marquis d'Angerville

The 2011 Volnay Clos des Ducs 1er Cru is showing extremely well. It is not the deepest in color and the bouquet demands some encouragement, but gradually reveals enticing smoke-infused red fruit, Earl Grey and earthy scents. Conservative and classic in style but very compelling. The palate is medium-bodied with an appealing, fleshy opening. There is a lovely suppleness to this Clos des Ducs with a persistent and seamless finish that flirts with ferrous-like notes on the aftertaste. Wonderful. Tasted at the annual Marquis d'Angerville tasting in London.

Very pale rust red. Freshness rather than evolution on the nose. Fruit is there but shows a tiny bit of dryness on the end, like the Lafarge Clos des Chênes 2011. Good energy here. And some development still to come. (JR)