2018 Domaine de Pallus Chinon la Rougerie
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Tasting notes
The 2018 Chinon La Rougerie has a minty, oaky bouquet with aromas of dark wild berries, wild strawberries, spices and new oak. Medium to full-bodied, layered and concentrated, it has a robust tannic frame and a grilled finish that emphasizes the firmness of the tannins. Matured for 18 months in 228-liter barrels, of which one-third is new, the oak is a little prominent for me at the moment, and I suspect this will still be the case even after some time in the cellar. However, we should keep in mind that the warm vintage may have resulted in woodier wines than usual.
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Average Score
Rebecca Gibb MW, Vinous
Yohan Castaing, Wine Advocate
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The 2018 La Rougerie is sourced from half a hectare sloping parcel that was planted in two stages, in 2007 and another section in 1952 by the father of the current steward, Bertrand Sourdais. It is a mouthfilling, almost sensual Cabernet Franc with notes of cola, vanilla, black cherry, damsons, dark chocolate and cloves. Having been matured in new barrels for 18 months, it shows its oak influence but it's not out of kilter. It is a really serious, full bodied style with a dense fruit core yet retaining a sense of floating. The huge tannins coat the palate and provide a grippy sensation that envelops the mouth. Far too young, this is a wine that deserves cellaring for all the components to harmonise - at the moment the orchestra is playing in sections; it has all the ingredients for a long and healthy life.