2013 Volnay Vendanges Selectionees

(these vines average 50 years of age; no new oak): Medium red. Nose dominated by black cherry. A step up in depth and breadth from the regular village offering, but still dominated by fruit, with cherry, raspberry and strawberry flavors nicely supported by serious, dusty tannins. Finishes with noteworthy persistence.

The 2013 Volnay Vendanges Selectionées comes from a selection of 50-year-old vines on more calcareous soils that tend to produce more "vin de garde" fruit than vines used for the Volnay Village. There was no 2012 produced by the domaine While it is adorned with similar scents as the Village, there is a greater sense of depth and intensity on the nose. The palate is medium-bodied with firm tannins, more backbone than the Village Cru and a sense of symmetry toward the finish. Give this 5-6 years in bottle before broaching, and you will have a very serious Volnay on your hands.

Terroir selection in the centre of the appellation just below the premiers crus. Richer and riper on the nose than the village wine. Core and bitter cherries. Absolutely bone dry, cries out for time, but it will surely make delightful old bones. (JR)