The 1972 Volnay 1er Cru Clos des Ducs should have been a write-off given the reputation of the vintage, although experience has told me not to dismiss '72s. Sure enough, it has a respectable if muffled, leathery bouquet with hints of marmalade. The palate is light and simple, but undeniably balanced with unanticipated dried honeyed tones towards the finish. No, it does not have the breeding of the substance of a Clos des Ducs, but I happily finished my glass.