A more deeply pitched and slightly riper yet still fresh and spicy nose also freely reveals its aromas of plum, dark currant and black cherry. There is fine volume and a beautiful mouthfeel to the sappy and palate coating medium-bodied flavors that conclude in a dusty, compact, moderately austere and built-to-age finale. This is also lovely though a wine that's going to require at least some patience as it's quite tightly wound today. (Drink starting 2032). 92 Points
Julia Harding MW, Jancis Robinson
Cask sample. Deep crimson. Deep, rich and dark-fruited. Generous, smooth, rich wine, firmly tannic, quite powerful and with masses of fruit. The tannins add to the freshness. (Drink between 2028-2035). 17/20
Haynes Hanson & Clarke
Champans is one of the most perfectly situated First Growths of Volnay, and we consistently love and follow this wine from Blain-Gagnard. Careful wine-making, with little or no punching-down and restrained pumping-over of the juice, has again resulted in a wine of medium deep-ruby purple colour, and admirably fresh fruitiness. Palate is bright and lively, with impressive middle density and softly elegant aftertaste. This offers great value for a First Growth Volnay (for drinking 2025-2032+).
