Domaine Les Pallières, Gigondas (Rhône Valley, France) “Terrasse du Diablo” 2007

($28, Kermit Lynch):  With the 2007 vintage, there are two cuvées, this one and “Les Racines” (also reviewed this week), from this leading Gigondas producer.  More similar than different, they represent different expressions of the estate.  They are definitely not a “first” and “second” wine.  Both are easy to recommend. For Terrasse du Diablo, the grapes come from plots at the highest elevation of the estate.  Made from a blend of Grenache (90%), Mourvedre (5%) and Clairette, it has great power and spice.  But it’s the wine’s harmony and elegance that’s most remarkable.  There’s an unexpected glossiness to it and an unusual sophistication for a Gigondas, especially one from rugged high altitude vineyards. 92 Michael Apstein Jan 25, 2011