The 2019 Volnay Clos du Chateau des Ducs 1er Cru was de-stemmed by hand like the Mitans and Pezerolles. It has a deep, transparent, delineated bouquet with mineral-rich red fruit, rose petals and potpourri. The palate is medium-bodied with a silky smooth entry, a light marine influence here with a hint of seaweed towards the persistent finish. Excellent. 93-95 points

This cuvee will be offered as Hommage a Michel in honour of his 70th and final harvest. The wine is worthy of its task in paying tribute to one of the most inspirational human beings to have graced the vineyards and cellars of Burgundy. The 2019 Clos du Chateau des Ducs displays a beautiful mid red robe, a little denser in bouquet than the Clos des Chenes. Here there is much more tension, less suavity, but a worthy companion. Since adopting the hand destemming technique and the vertical press, the Clos du Chateau des Ducs has risen to join the Clos des Chenes at the top of the tree. 93-97 points

At this early stage, the 2019 Volnay 1er Cru Clos du Chateau des Ducs appears to be the equal of the Clos des Chenes in quality, even if the two are very different in character. Bursting with notes of plums, peonies, orange rind, dark chocolate and spices, it`s medium to full-bodied, velvety and layered, with a deep and multidimensional core, ultra-refined tannins and a long, resonant finish. 95-97 points