Benjamin Leroux 2023 Release Dinner

OUTSTANDING, TOP VALUE. An exuberantly expressive nose combines notes of mostly red berries with plenty of earth character that is also reflected by the succulent, delicious and appealingly textured flavors that conclude in a slightly bitter pit fruit-inflected finish that offers above average depth and persistence for the genre. Solid quality here. BURGHOUND

OUTSTANDING, TOP VALUE. An exceptionally pretty, even perfumed nose of various red berries is nuanced by hints of earth and the sauvage. The delicious, vibrant and appealingly textured, if not particularly dense, flavors do offer fine length on the balanced finale. This won't wow you with its concentration but the overall quality is better than average and this is worth a look. BURGHOUND

A rich but even purple. Plenty of generosity on the nose, covering the more savoury aspects. Very nicely poised with a burst of dark fruit energy, with a savoury dark strawberry note to finish, and medium plus length. Drink from 2029-2035. Tasted Oct 2024. JASPER MORRIS MW, Inside Burgundy

The 2023 Volnay Clos de la Cave des Ducs 1er Cru contains around 10% whole bunch. This articulates more terroir and Pinot expression than to the slightly ripe Mitans. The palate is medium-bodied with sapid black fruit, fine tannins, crisp acidity and a hint of orange rind on the finish. This is promising. NEAL MARTIN

“Everything about this wine is intense—each element of the structure seems to be bolded, italicized and underscored. That said, it all works together remarkably well, even if—for me—the palate feel and organization overtook the aromas at the moment. But, there is extra-dimensional depth of expression on the palate, too. Black plums, warm tobacco, turned earth, savory spice and warm figs give exceptional complexity. (94) CHRISTY CANTERBURY MW, Tim Atkin Burgundy Report

Medium ruby, with a discreet elegance to the nose, which is what this plot gives. Always discreet, agrees Ben, but it has something to say – as indeed you do find towards the back of the palate where the fruit tightens up to provide some grip. Almost all destemmed. Drink from 2031-2037. (91-94) JASPER MORRIS MW, Inside Burgundy