An incredibly perfumed, airy and cool nose speaks of anise, essence of red berry fruit, stone and floral hints. There is a distinctly textured mouth feel to the restrained and beautifully well-detailed and intensely mineral-driven flavors that possess a highly refreshing mouth feel, all wrapped in a youthfully austere, restrained and delicious finish. A lovely and very understated effort that should also reward mid-term cellaring.

The 2011 Volnay 1er Cru Clos des Ducs has an accomplished, sophisticated, mineral-driven bouquet that echoes the nascent 2012. The palate is crisp and a little leafy on the entry, something just slightly autumnal about it. The tannins are firm and just a touch austere, but they are neatly embroidered into the black fruit profile. The finish exerts a pleasant grip and it lingers long in the mouth. This is a classy wine hemmed in by an average growing season. - Neal Martin