Good dark red. Closed on the nose, hinting at redcurrant, minerals and menthol. Dense, sappy and penetrating in the mouth, showing lovely depth to its intense flavors of cherry and licorice. Substantial ripe tannins call for patience, but there's plenty of medicinal reserve here to support a positive evolution in bottle.

The 2013 Volnay Clos des Chênes 1er Cru has a lovely, carefree bouquet with lifted dark cherries, bergamot, Dorest plum and lightly damp loamy scents. It is not complex, but this is very charming (like most of Lafarge's wines). The palate is medium-bodied with firm tannins, slightly austere, moderate length, with a ferrous finish. This is drinking perfectly now but should continue to provide pleasure.

Almost 1 ha (he has 16 ha in total). Red and much shallower soils above the calcaire. Very rich and subtle. Very glorious and magnificent structure. Real majesty. At least they have great quality even if not quantity. Very noble. Great integrity. Nothing remotely fancy. (JR)