Domaine Francois Buffet Volnay "Clos des Chenes" 2018 - 750ml

91pts Jasper Morris - Inside Burgundy

Winery Notes

François Buffet is flying under the radar and could very soon be among the top producers in Volnay. These represent the true essence of Pinot Noir from Burgundy.

François Buffet is an organically-farmed Volnay estate, producing fine-boned, aromatic reds in a classic Burgundian style. The first Buffet estate was established in 1692, and current owner and winemaker, Marc-Olivier Buffet represents the seventh generation of his family. The domaine has enviable holdings among Volnay’s best premiers crus, as well as plots in Pommard, Savigny and Pernand-Vergelesses. Buffet is a source of well-priced, classic Burgundy of great finesse and elegance.

Marc-Olivier is dedicated to the health of his vineyards, and has achieved organic certification for his domaine. He uses biodynamic practices where he perceives them as beneficial, and horses to plow. The domaine vineyards represent approximately 7.5ha (16 acres). Winemaking is not dogmatic, Marc-Olivier instead adapting his extraction, use of stems (up to 30% in some cuvées in some vintages) and time in cask according to the vintage.

But it is possible to be more confident about the style, which is classic Volnay, with perfumed red fruits on the nose, medium body weight, silky tannins, and long, aromatic finishes. The elegance of the style should not be considered to limit aging potential; concentrated, structured premiers crus such as Clos des Chênes (Marc-Olivier’s largest holding, at 1ha) will improve for 20 years.

The domaine is located in the heart of Volnay, on the Place de l’Eglise. The winery backs onto the domaine-owned Le Village premier cru, while the aging takes place in a traditional subterranean stone cellar