The 2022 Volnay Clos des Chênes 1er Cru was a little more backward and gawky than Lafarge's other cuvées - just a stage the wine is at during its élevage. It is more mineral-driven, but it needs time. The palate is medium-bodied with slightly grainy tannins framing the layers of red fruit infused with crushed stone and a touch of spice. Very persistent on the finish that veers a little towards Pommard in style. This is a Volnay predestined for long-term aging.

The 2022 Volnay 1er Cru Clos des Chênes is lovely, delivering aromas of cherries, red berries and plums mingled with rose petals, spices and vine smoke. Medium to full-bodied, rich and layered, with excellent depth at the core, powdery tannins and lively acids, it concludes with a broad, persistent finish. This parcel has more in common with Taillepieds than with the rest of Clos des Chênes, which explains why it's such a singular expression of this climat.