Domaine de Pallus, Chinon, Le Clos de Pallus, Cravant-les-Côteaux, Touraine, Loire, France, 2018

Producer Profile

We first met Bertrand Sourdais when he was the winemaker for Dominio de Atauta, one of the finest wineries in Ribera Del Duero.

Now at the helm of this family-run 18 hectares domaine in Chinon, Bertrand is already changing and improving the vineyard management and has brought new techniques to the cellar. As a result, he is expressing the true potential of Domaine de Pallus: silky, deep rich Cabernet Francs without any of the green vegetal character so often showing in the lesser wines from this region.

Viticulture

Made from a blend of 3 plots of at least 60-year-old Cabernet Franc vines: 0.40 acres of hillside extremely high clay; 0.43 acres of hillside pure limestone which has a very strong influence on the wine; 0.55 acres of stony silica which provides high definition to the blend. Bertrand uses biodynamic practices in his vineyards, but they are currently uncertified.

Winemaking

Fermented in 25hl and 90hl concrete vats after the grapes have been macerated for 18 days (the cap is punched down after 12 days). Matured for 12 months split 50:50 between old barrels from DRC and Haut Brion. The wines are then transferred into concrete vats again after filtering for another 6 months.

Tasting Note

An elegant Chinon with bright red and black berry aromas, accented by violet, spice, and earthy notes. On the palate, silky tannins and fresh acidity provide structure, with flavours of ripe fruit, mineral, and subtle smokiness. The finish is refined and persistent, showcasing the wine’s balance and terroir-driven character.

Food Matching

Roasted duck with cherry sauce or grilled pork tenderloin with herbs. It also pairs nicely with mushroom risotto or a charcuterie board