Frequently Asked Questions
A masterpiece of winemaking from Peter Michael Winery, the 2018 ‘Les Pavots' Estate Red Blend showcases the elegance and complexity of Knights Valley terroir. This Bordeaux-inspired blend, comprising 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Cabernet Franc, 10% Merlot, and 3% Petit Verdot, is deeply ruby in color with a red-purple rim. The bouquet opens with violets, wild herbs, and notes of crushed stone, harmonizing with rich flavors of blackberry, boysenberry, and Albion strawberries. Subtle layers of tobacco, cedar, vanilla bean, and black pepper add depth, while a full-bodied palate with silky tannins leads to a long, structured finish. Meticulously aged for 18 months in 100% French oak and crafted to evolve gracefully over two decades, this wine is a celebration of Peter Michael's dedication to excellence and the extraordinary volcanic soils of its hillside vineyard.
Process & Profile
Peter Michael's 'Les Pavots' 2018 exemplifies mastery in winemaking. Sourced from the slopes of Mount St. Helena in Knights Valley, this wine is a testament to volcanic soils and meticulous craftsmanship. The 2018 vintage combines a proprietary blend: 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Cabernet Franc, 10% Merlot, and 3% Petit Verdot. After being hand-harvested at optimal ripeness, the wine is aged for 18 months in 100% French oak barrels, creating depth and finesse. The result is a bold, well-structured red with a stellar alcohol content of 15.5%.Tasting Notes
In the glass, the wine captivates with its deep ruby hue and red-purple rim. The bouquet is elegant yet complex, featuring aromas of freshly bloomed violets, boysenberry, and blueberry layered with wild garrigue and crushed-stone minerality. On the palate, it boasts a luxurious array of flavors: the richness of blackberry pie, fresh Albion strawberries, and savory tobacco are complemented by hints of cedar, vanilla bean, and black pepper. Its finish is long, polished, and satisfying, highlighting a balance of power and refinement.What Makes It Special
'Les Pavots' stands out as a true expression of the Knights Valley terroir. The vineyard's rocky, rhyolitic soils, formed by ancient volcanic activity, impart a distinct mineral complexity. Located at altitudes reaching 1,400 feet, the estate's unique microclimate allows for a gradual, even ripening of grapes. This careful cultivation, combined with Peter Michael Winery's commitment to traditional techniques like hand-sorting and indigenous yeast fermentation, ensures unparalleled quality and aging potential.How to Enjoy
To fully appreciate its nuances, serve 'Les Pavots' at around 60°F (15.5°C). For younger vintages, decanting for 1-2 hours helps unlock its full aromatic potential, while older bottles may need minimal aeration to remove sediment. This full-bodied red pairs beautifully with rich dishes like roasted lamb, beef tenderloin, or braised short ribs. Its versatility also complements hearty fish dishes like grilled salmon or tuna, as well as mushroom-based pastas. With proper cellaring, 'Les Pavots' can evolve gracefully for over two decades, making it a treasure for collectors and connoisseurs alike. Indulge in the unparalleled craftsmanship of Peter Michael 'Les Pavots' 2018, a timeless wine that beautifully marries boldness and elegance.Frequently Asked Questions
What is Peter Michael 'Les Pavots' Estate Red 2018?
Peter Michael 'Les Pavots' Estate Red 2018 is a flagship Bordeaux-style blend from the Knights Valley vineyard in Sonoma County. It is composed of 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Cabernet Franc, 10% Merlot, and 3% Petit Verdot, offering a full-bodied and elegant profile with a focus on terroir expression.
What are the tasting notes for the 2018 vintage?
This vintage is deep ruby with a red-purple rim and showcases a bouquet of violets, blueberry, and boysenberry, complemented by hints of wild sage, crushed stone, and tobacco. On the palate, the wine reveals layers of blackberry pie, strawberries, cedar, black pepper, and cigar box, leading to a long, structured finish.
How long can this wine age?
The 2018 'Les Pavots' is known for its age-worthiness and can evolve gracefully for up to two decades. However, it is also approachable in its youth.
What makes the Les Pavots vineyard unique?
Located on the slopes of Mount St. Helena, the vineyard spans 49 acres at elevations up to 1,400 feet. The steep terrain and volcanic, rhyolitic soils contribute to the wine's complexity and minerality.
What food pairs well with this wine?
'Les Pavots' pairs beautifully with rich dishes such as roasted lamb, beef tenderloin, or hearty stews. Its robust aroma and flavor also complement dishes like Moroccan spiced meats or aged cheeses.
Who owns Peter Michael Winery?
The winery was founded by Sir Peter Michael in 1982 and remains family-owned under the stewardship of Sir Peter's son, Paul Michael, and his wife, Emily, with plans to sustain family ownership for at least 100 years.
What distinguishes Peter Michael Winery's philosophy?
The winery emphasizes terroir-driven winemaking, with a commitment to classical techniques, mountain vineyards, and limited production. The winemaking process highlights the vineyard's unique characteristics rather than overpowering them.
What accolades has the 2018 vintage received?
The 2018 'Les Pavots' received critical acclaim, including 97 points from both James Suckling and Jeb Dunnuck, and 96 points from Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, highlighting its elegance, refinement, and balance.
How is the wine made?
The wine undergoes fermentation with indigenous yeasts and matures for 18 months in 100% French oak barrels from artisan coopers. The winemaking process is meticulous, including hand-sorting of fruit to ensure only the highest quality grapes are used.
What is the price of Peter Michael 'Les Pavots' Estate Red 2018?
The wine is priced around $240 per 750ml bottle, reflecting its reputation as one of the top-rated wines from Knights Valley.
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