Bouchard Père & Fils : Volnay 1er cru "Caillerets - Ancienne Cuvée Carnot" Domaine 2019

This is a firm and pretty red with a solid tannin backbone to the medium body. Ripe fruit with some walnut, tobacco, and floral undertones. It’s long and flavorful. Balanced and firm. Classic style. Drink in 2025.

The 2019 Volnay Les Caillerets Ancienne Cuvée Carnot 1er Cru has a slightly smudged bouquet, with raspberry and strawberry fruit, sous-bois and leather. Could there be just a touch of Brettanomyces here? The palate is medium-bodied, with a slightly saccharine entry, modest depth, and lower acidity than Clerget's Caillerets, leading to a slightly monotone finish. Not bad, but it lacks a soupçon of pedigree. Tasted blind at the Burgfest tasting.