Dark red cherry, plum and spice notes abound in the 2011 Volnay Fremiets. A rich, juicy wine for the year, the 2011 impresses for its volume and pure voluptuousness. Although quite racy for the vintage, the 2011 has more than enough depth and structure to drink nicely for at least a number of years. There is so much to like here, not least of which is the wine's open, resonant personality.

Bright medium red. Precise, high-pitched aromas and flavors of red cherry, raspberry and chalky minerality. Juicy, vibrant and pure, delivering impressive intensity without any obvious weight. Terrific mineral cut and a firm acid/tannin spine should keep this beauty youthful for many years. Offers outstanding verve for the vintage.

The 2011 Volnay 1er Cru Les Fremiets has an attractive, minty bouquet with touches of mushroom and forest floor. The palate is medium-bodied with a chocolate-tinged entry. The tannins feel supple and the acidity nicely judged, the finish needing a few more months to fully integrate. Not a bad Volnay by any means, but in my opinion, surpassed by other vintages encountered over the years. These 2011s were all tasted with Guillaume d'Angerville at the domaine in Volnay.

This producer uses the spelling Fremiet. Smudgy violets scent. Very fine, very long and really rather beautiful. Rich and broad on the palate. Sweet and already lovely – at quite a different stage than the wine this producer labels Taillepieds. Not dense but extremely elegant. (JR)