By 1998, the Roux brothers wanted to make a change. With no future successors to take their place, they decided to sell. The Brunier brothers, Daniel and Frederic, of the famed Vieux Telegraphe in Chateauneuf-du-Pape, having distinguished themselves time and time again with world class wines. A casual discussion over lunch at Chez Panisse between Daniel and Kermit Lynch, the Brunier’s longtime American importer, spontaneously turned into a game plan to revive the faded jewel—Les Pallieres. Grown on northwest-facing hillside terraces in the most northerly reaches of the appellation. This selection comes entirely from parcels in the lieu-dit of Les Pallières, at an average altitude of about 250 metres. 80% Grenache Noir, 15% Syrah and Cinsault and 5% Clairette, with an average vine age of 70 years. “Racines”, a cuvée made with grapes from the estate’s oldest vines, has the velvet, depth and harmony that defines old grenache when cultivated in refined terroirs. It has very high ageing potential, as balance is the main factor. A topnotch wine to treat yourself with.