Louis Latour : Volnay 1er cru "En Chevret" 2016

The 2016 Volnay 1er Cru En Chevret reveals attractive notes of cassis, smoky cherries and black raspberries, followed by a medium-bodied, ample palate with a fleshy core of fruit, succulent acids and chalky structuring tannins. Somewhat rustic in profile, it falls between the suave 2017 and chewy 2015 renditions in style.

A mix of earth, sweet oak, black cherry and black pepper flavors signals this powerful Volnay. Iron and graphite elements emerge as this builds to a muscular, tannic finish. Best from 2022 through 2036. 550 cases made, 150 cases imported.

This is very fragrant on the nose. Violets and black fruits. But it has a firm tannin structure, which makes the finish quite austere. Plenty of good flavors here, and this may be better from 2019.

Attractive violet fragrance and bitter cranberry fruit on the palate with light tannins and integrated acidity. Better than their Pommard in that it seems more authentic to the perfume of Volnay. (RH)