Mineral-driven masterpiece 2004 Domaine de Pallus Chinon Les Pensees de Pallus

There could be a pencil shaving and a drop of single-malt scotch in this unusual wine.Though not for everyone, this is a special wine offered at a great price. It's hardly relevant to comment on the label, but it is gorgeous in its elegant simplicity. Inside the bottle, you’ll find elegance, as well. I do not pick up on the notes of fruit other reviewers have written about, nor do three friends with whom I’ve shared this wine. To me, this wine is thoroughly mineral-driven except for some tart cherries that dissipate as the wine opens up. Setting aside mouthfeel for the moment, if you can imagine licking slate or a sun-warmed river rock – and enjoying it – that’s how this wine tastes to me. Rest assured: On the tongue, the wine is silky. A friend said he detected a hint of peat and, sure enough, it was there at the finish. The 2005 isn't as special. The 2006 is out; I have not tried it.