Domaine François Buffet

Domaine François Buffet is making some of the best-value, under-the-radar Burgundy in its home appellation of Volnay. Marc-Oliver, François’s son, has been in charge of the domaine since 2005, and his wonderfully expressive Pinot Noir has the elegance and floral depth found in only the finest Volnay. He holds an impressive range of vineyards, totalling 7.5 hectares, which includes six premiers crus vineyards in Volnay, plus further premiers crus in Pommard, Savigny-les-Beaune and Pernand-Vergelesses. Every step of the process is meticulous; vineyards are nurtured with minimal intervention, grapes are hand-harvested and wine-making is traditional, with around 20% new oak barrels used for ageing in Marc-Olivier’s charming, damp cellar. But from this unassuming beginning, the finished result is remarkable and, while his name is still relatively unknown, his Burgundy offers incredible value for money.