Founded in the 15th century, Domaine Les Pallières is a property of endurance, as well as now-restored magnificence. It was owned until 1998 by the Roux brothers, but, at this point, the reputation of its once brilliant wines had dived due to hard frosts and vineyard neglect. The Brunier brothers, Daniel and Frédéric, already famous for their top-scoring Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Vieux Télégraphe, decided Les Pallières had great potential and bought the estate. It has two blocks of vines, Terrasse du Diable coming from the higher, cooler slopes below Les Dentelles de Montmirail. These lofty peaks lend limestone scree to the sandy clay soils. Aged in oak and bottled unfiltered, this is a lithe, elegant Gigondas, with the fruit leading to a full-bodied flavor profile consisting of cherries, raspberries and rich red plums. Structural tannins and subtle hints of chocolate and licorice add complexity, while the silky texture results in a pleasing, sapid finish. Elegance is not lost despite the powerful character.