181. Louis Boillot, Volnay 1er Cru Clos de la Chapelle, ????

£??; 12.5%

Very enjoyable preface to Christmas lunch at Andrew’s, courtesy of Steve. A bottle he bought whilst holidaying in Meursault a few years before. Produced by one of the Boillots – I think there are at least 2 others – Jean-Marc maybe? Either way, Volnay is a favourite 1er Cru Burgundy and this was a very enjoyable one! Mid-ruby-red with some brick at the rim. Most notably an unusual smokiness – could almost be wood from toasted oak barrels – that was most noticable in the aftertaste, but then developed in the aroma, over red fruit. Good acidity to give structure, with fine, refined tannin. Very nice drinking.