Again, the 2008 Clos des Chênes is quite a bit more red fruity than is typical with this wine, and it will make for one of the finest vintages of this great Volnay when the dust settles on the vintage a couple of decades down the road. The stunning nose soars from the glass in a blaze of cherries, red plums, blood orange, a pungent note of violets, striking minerality and a bit of nutmeg and cinnamon in the upper register. On the palate the wine is deep, full and properly reserved, with a rock solid core of sappy fruit, beautiful transparency, laser-like focus and stunning length and grip on the ripely tannic and very complex finish. Great wine. (Drink between 2020-2060) 94+

The 2008 Volnay Clos des Chenes is a powerful, intense Burgundy. There is a weightless energy to the Clos des Chenes that I find hugely appealing. Beautifully delineated aromatics and fruit are nicely framed by the clean, saline finish. This is an impeccable wine from Lafarge. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2033. (AG)

Good deep red. High-pitched aromas of black cherry, violet, licorice and crushed stone. Like liquid silk on entry, then concentrated, primary and penetrating in the mid-palate, with beautifully integrated acidity accentuating the wine's dark, medicinal aspect. At once broad and lively on the finish, with rich dark fruit flavors building slowly and staining the palate. I might have picked this blend as a Cote de Nuits wine. (ST) 93+