THE RHONE REPORT – JEB DUNNUCK – ISSUE # 9 – 25 SEPT 2011 – 92 pts

A blend of 85% Grenache, 10% Mourvèdre, and 5% Clairette that’s aged both in tank and foudre, the 2009 Domaine les Pallières Gigondas Terrasse du Diable comes from the upper, terraced portion of the Pallières vineyard. Showing an outstanding aromatic profile of cherry, white pepper, crushed stone, and licorice, the wine is medium to full-bodied on the palate, showing a round, supple texture, beautiful freshness, and solid fruit that’s focused by ripe tannin on the finish. A classic Gigondas, this is approachable now, but should be better in a year or two, with a decade of prime drinking.