(a blend of 49% cabernet franc, 45% cabernet sauvignon, 4% petit verdot and 2% merlot) Deep ruby. Sexy aromas of black raspberry, mocha, black licorice and tarry oak. Superripe and sweet in the mouth, with somewhat medicinal flavors of black cherry, menthol and mocha. Finishes with huge, slightly tough tannins. This wine is from younger vines replanted in one part of the Pavots vineyard at higher density, using what winemaker Morlet described as a field selection of better clones.

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The seriousness of a Bordeaux varietal program is evidenced by the quality of Peter Michael's second wine, L'Esprit des Pavots. This is no ordinary second wine, and it is probably inappropriate to even think of it that way as each of the vintages to date has merited an outstanding score. The 2002 (385 cases) is a completely different blend of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and a tiny dollop of Petit Verdot. It does not possess the density of the 2001 but reveals more charm and aromatics along with a seductive, silky personality. It offers noteworthy aromas and flavors of coffee roast intermixed with mocha, chocolate, black currants, cherries, and licorice.

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Pleasantly balanced, with the focus on rich, ripe, vibrant black cherry, cassis and blackberry fruit. Light cedary oak provides a nice dimension and the tannins and acidity are well-proportioned, giving it structure. Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Merlot. 431 cases made.

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