Domaine François Buffet Volnay 1er Cru Clos des Chênes 2023

Critical Acclaim: 93 pts Vinous; 93 pts Jasper Morris MW.

About the Winery: The Buffet family has made wine in Volnay for generations. Today Marc-Olivier Buffet farms vineyards across Volnay and neighboring Côte de Beaune villages, bringing a precise, site-focused touch to the domaine’s Pinot Noir.

About the Wine: Clos des Chênes is a distinguished Volnay Premier Cru. The domaine’s 0.95 hectares include old-vine parcels, with some vines more than 80 years old. Chalky marl soils lend this 100% Pinot Noir its mineral definition and firm, cellar-worthy structure; the wine matures for about 18 months in oak.

Tasting Notes: Pure red berries and a delicate floral note lead into a poised, medium-bodied palate. Grainy tannins and a stony, mineral edge give the fruit shape, while a touch of velvet softens the long finish.

“Its pure red fruit notes gain intensity in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied and nicely poised with grainy tannins…” - Neal Martin, Vinous.

“Clos des Chênes remains a tough beast, albeit with a touch of velvet on the bones and a long finish.” - Jasper Morris MW.

Serving Suggestion: Serve at cellar temperature with roast duck, coq au vin or mushroom dishes. If opening young, give it 60 to 90 minutes in a decanter.

Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir.