(from younger vines that showed some effects of heat stress in 2016, according to Sieve; vinified with one-third whole clusters and aged in one-third new oak): Healthy dark red with ruby tones. Distinctly dark and ripe in its aromas, offering scents of medicinal black cherry, licorice and stone. Nicely concentrated and solidly built if not especially refined; a step up in chocolatey density from the foregoing samples, with the stuffing to support its serious building tannins. The estate did not offer this cuvée in 2012, 2013 or 2014 due to hail but produced 40 hectoliters per hectare in 2016.

The 2016 Volnay 1er Cru Les Brouillards comes from a vineyard that had a tough run in recent years because of hail. The wine has a ripe and more opulent, vivacious bouquet than the Les Grèves, albeit without the same level of mineralité. The palate is well balanced, although it will take some time for the one-third new oak to be assimilated. Good depth and structure here, although I would like more personality and charm to develop on the finish.