Tasting Notes
Robert Parker 90
The 2007 Volnay 1er Cru Champans, which was tasted from an ex-cellar magnum, has an expressive bouquet that is perhaps just a little more advanced than I was anticipating. Yet it is undeniably elegant and poised with a lovely scent of oyster shell that suffuses the red berry fruit, then later, a hint of black truffle. The palate is surfeit with vibrant red berry fruit that has a pastille-like purity, subtle blood orange and dried orange zest notes lining what feels like a powerful finish that fans out with confidence. Is this a Volnay Champans intent upon giving its all in the flush of youth? Whatever, it is a gorgeous Volnay to drink now and over the next decade.
Anticipated maturity: 2016-2026
Vinous 90-92
Good bright medium red. Sweet red fruits, licorice and minerals on the nose. Suave and pure in the mouth, offering more cut, power and depth than the Caillerets-yet at the same time more feminine in style. Impeccably balanced and harmonious Volnay, finishing clean, spicy and perfumed, with understated tannins.
JancisRobinson.com 16.5
Guillaume d’Angerville describes the 2007 as ‘convivial wines’ and says his 2007s never really went through a closed phase. From magnum. Lightish garnet. Gentle notes of autumn leaves and undergrowth. Relatively developed on the nose. Perfect for drinking now – silky and fresh with sufficient fruit still in place to balance those more developed flavours. (JH)
Anticipated maturity: 2015-2020