The 2011 Volnay 1er Cru Clos des Ducs has an accomplished, sophisticated, mineral-driven bouquet that echoes the nascent 2012. The palate is crisp and a little leafy on the entry, something just slightly autumnal about it. The tannins are firm and just a touch austere, but they are neatly embroidered into the black fruit profile. The finish exerts a pleasant grip and it lingers long in the mouth. This is a classy wine hemmed in by an average growing season. These 2011s were all tasted with Guillaume d'Angerville at the domaine in Volnay.