The 2016 Domaine Francois Gaunoux Volnay 1er Cru Le Clos des Chenes is a red wine made from Pinot Noir grapes, hailing from the renowned Burgundy region of France, specifically the Cote de Beaune sub-region. This wine is produced by Domaine Francois Gaunoux, a respected name in the area, and offers a classic expression of Volnay's terroir.

Jeff Loo from JJ Buckley, who awarded this wine a score of 90, describes it as "Crimson Red at the core with a transition into a pink hue," suggesting a visually appealing appearance. Aromatically, the wine presents "pleasing notes of red cherry, fresh strawberry, white pepper and fresh earth, followed by a soft accent of olive tapenade." This combination of aromas indicates a complex nose that hints at the wine's depth and character.

On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied, showcasing "good length" and flavors that first strike with "bing cherry and fresh soil." Loo notes an intriguing "wild animale vigor," adding a layer of rustic charm to the tasting experience. The wine's density suggests that it is built for aging, requiring "3-5 years in the cellar to emerge" and potentially rewarding those who wait with a long-lived and evolving wine experience. Loo confidently states that it can be enjoyed for "25+ years," highlighting the wine's potential longevity.

Overall, the 2016 Domaine Francois Gaunoux Volnay 1er Cru Le Clos des Chenes presents itself as a promising wine with a structured profile and an aromatic complexity. While it may require patience to fully appreciate its true nature, its excellent vintage and craftsmanship suggest it is worth the wait for those who favor aged Burgundy wines.