Domaine de Pallus

Overview

Domaine de Pallus is operated by Bertrand Sourdais in Cravant-lès-Coteaux, Chinon. The domaine produces a range of single-vineyard Chinons from old vines on tuffeau and sandy alluvial soils along the Vienne River. The 2019s are among the finest wines Gilman reviewed in the annual Loire report — particularly the Croix Boissée (95 points) and Clos de Pallus (94+ points).

Appellations

• Chinon — Cravant-lès-Coteaux; multiple single vineyards

Key Wines

• Chinon “les Pensées de Pallus” — younger vine cuvée near river; alluvial soils; aged in used casks; 2019 scored 92+
• Chinon “le Clos de Pallus” — first bottled solo in 2017; 65+ year-old vines; sandy soils over tuffeau; 2019 scored 94+
• Chinon “la Croix Boissée” — 45-year-old vines; tuffeau soils; new oak framing; 2019 scored 95 (“brilliant”)
• Chinon “la Rougerie” — more clay in soil; broader-shouldered; 2019 scored 94

Style Notes

Pure, refined, and very structured Cabernet Franc from old vines on tuffeau and sandy soils. The 2019s show extraordinary aging potential (best drinking 2034+) with no rush. “La Croix Boissée” is the standout: brilliant, long, seamlessly balanced.

My Tastings

(none yet)

Sources

• sources/articles/VFTC/VFTC May-June 2024 #111.txt — Annual Loire Report, Chinon section (pages 107–108): four single-vineyard 2019s