Volnay 1er Cru Clos des Chenes 1985

Intro: The 1985 vintage of Domaine François Gaunoux’s Premier Cru “Clos des Chênes” from Volnay presents a rare opportunity to enjoy a mature Burgundian Pinot Noir from a respected Côte de Beaune producer. The vineyard “Clos des Chênes” is one of the prime Premier Cru climats of Volnay and is often noted for delivering wines with elegance, red berry character, and fine tannin structure. While the exact 1985 bottle from Gaunoux doesn’t appear frequently in pricing databases, the domaine’s wines from this vineyard and nearby vintages are sought after and show strong age bearing capacity.

Region: Burgundy || Winery: Domaine François Gaunoux

Grapes: 100% Pinot Noir

Aging: Approximately 16–20 months in French oak barrels

ABV: 13% || Decant: 20-30 minutes || Serving Temp: 16-17°C

Pairing: Roast duck or squab with berry jus; mature but elegant cheeses such as aged Comté or Gruyère

Tasting Notes: The 1985 Volnay 1er Cru Clos des Chênes, François Gaunoux shows a garnet hue with a brick edge, reflecting its age. The nose reveals red and black cherry, plum, forest floor, tobacco, leather, and earthy mineral tones. Silky and mature on the palate, with soft, integrated tannins, lively acidity, and evolved flavours of truffle, cedar, and dried red fruit. The finish is elegant, nuanced, and persistent. Graceful rather than powerful, capturing Volnay’s hallmark finesse at full maturity

Rating (Complexity & Vintage Year): 93 AB