2016 Benjamin Leroux, Volnay Premier Cru, Les Caillerets

The 2016 Volnay 1er Cru Les Caillerets, including two-thirds whole bunch, has a nicely detailed bouquet with bright black cherry and blackcurrant scents, very pure and focused. The palate is medium-bodied with succulent red and black fruit, hints of fig in the background with a vivacious, blood orange-tinged finish that lingers long in the mouth. Excellent.

(still in barrels, 22% new; 75% vendange entier ): Full, dark red. Aromas of redcurrant and cherry complicated by a hint of oak spice. Concentrated, lightly saline wine with a subtle sweetness to its perfumed flavors of ripe red fruits and flowers. With good depth and a firm tannic spine, this wine is built to age. Finishes with surprising sweetness.

70% whole bunch. Deep crimson. Rich and broad on the nose. Rather richer than some Caillerets. Well-integrated sandy tannins and very lively fruit. Crisp. (JR)