2020 Chateau de Meursault Clos des Chenes Volnay 1er Cru, Burgundy

Rich dense purple, light reduction (this had not yet been racked) in otherwise hugely intense but not at all cooked nose. Very pure, long & deep, intense raspberry style, a few tannins but very persistent.

93 points Jasper Morris MW insideburgundy.com

Here too the wood treatment framing the ripe but nicely cool aromas of red and dark raspberry coulis is quite subtle. The strikingly concentrated larger-scaled, more powerful and more mineral-driven flavors exude an abundance of dry extract that imparts a sappy texture and buffers the very firm tannic spine on the austere and built-to-age finale. This is a Clos des Chênes to buy and forget for at least 8 to 10 years.

91-93 points Allen Meadows burghound.com Outstanding Top Value June 22

Château de Meursault is one of Burgundy's most historic estates, with a winemaking heritage dating back to the 11th century. Following significant investment and vineyard renewal over the past decade, the estate has re-established itself among the Côte de Beaune's leading producers. Its holdings include some of Burgundy's most prized vineyards, none more celebrated in Volnay than Clos des Chênes, a Premier Cru renowned for producing Pinot Noir of perfume, finesse and longevity.

Perched high on the slope above the village, Clos des Chênes is one of Volnay's largest and most prestigious Premier Cru vineyards. The site's limestone rich soils, excellent drainage and elevated position consistently produce wines with both power and elegance. The outstanding 2020 vintage delivered fruit of exceptional concentration and balance, creating a wine that combines youthful energy with remarkable depth and ageing potential.

Brilliant ruby red in colour, the bouquet is captivating from the first swirl. Aromas of wild cherry, raspberry and redcurrant are layered with rose petal, violet and subtle spice. As the wine opens, more complex notes of forest floor, cedar, truffle and crushed stone emerge, revealing the vineyard's pedigree. The palate is beautifully detailed and finely structured, combining vibrant red fruits with savoury earthiness and silky tannins. Fresh acidity provides lift and precision, while the finish is long, graceful and intensely aromatic, lingering with floral, mineral and spice notes.

This is classic Volnay at the table, pairing beautifully with duck breast, roast quail, veal tenderloin, mushroom pithivier or truffle infused pasta. Although already expressive with careful decanting, the wine has the structure and balance to evolve gracefully for fifteen years or more, rewarding patient collectors with increasing complexity and refinement.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2040.