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

Le Clos de Pallus monopole de Domaine de Pallus has a southeast exposure, it is part of the earliest vineyards of the domaine and is, in a way, their point of reference in terms of Cabernet Franc. To make this cru just the final part of the plot is harvested, representing about 1 ha of old vines planted on the richest area. The result is a wine in which the character of the old vineyard prevails and where the Cabernet Franc manages to transmit wisely the most ancestral truths of the plot.

Winemaking

100% destemming, vinification is carried out in 30 hl open-wooden vats, fermentation is for 25 to 30 days and ageing for 18 months in old Bourgogne barrels.

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