Volnay 2010, Comte Armand


Located in the heart of Pommard near the wonderful restaurant Aupres du Clocher, this producer is also known as Le Domaine Des Epeneaux since they have a "monopole" vineyard in Pommard called "Clos des Epeneaux". Although I have not tasted the 2010 vintage since late April I felt that in such a ripe, fruit-driven year a 2010 from a less tannic village like Volnay should work well with duck. And boy was I rewarded! This Volnay 2010 from Comte Armand bursts forth with a cassis and blackberry nose. Its ripe, touching on jammy or something like redcurant jelly. Intense, juicy, dark fruits. Berries without a hint of stone fruit (no sourness). This wine reminds me of the difference between the blackberry that grows at the very tip of the stalk and collects more rays of sunshine than the others hidden in the bramble. Consistent on the palate with the nose: gorgeous cassis and mure flavours with an elegant structure and ripe tannins. The domaine typically produces 5,500 bottles a year and the wine is aged in oak barrels for 18 months with 20% new oak. With this much fruit and just enough acidity I expect this will drink best in the next 3 years. Scores 24/30 for a Volnay. Photo shows a vineyard worker pruning Volnay vines on July 2nd 2010. 

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