2018 Les Pavots
Buying options
Tasting notes
The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Les Pavots presents a beguiling mix of Knights Valley savoriness and the more restrained style that is such a signature of the Peter Michael wines today. A dark, mysterious wine, the Pavots offers up an enticing mélange of dark cherry, gravel, spice, menthol, licorice, lavender, cured meats and scorched earth. There is plenty of virile intensity, but without the heaviness of some past years. The Pavots is in my view the Peter Michael wine that has undergone the most dramatic transformation in recent years, and that's a positive.
Critic scores
Average Score
Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW, Wine Advocate
James Suckling
More reviews and scores
Love the sweet berries, black olives, tile and fresh herbs on the nose with floral undertones. Oyster shell, too. Full-bodied with round, creamy tannins that are beautifully polished and refined. Very long finish. All about finesse and wonderful length. 68% cabernet sauvignon, 19% cabernet franc, 10% merlot and 3% petit verdot. Drink after 2023.
The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Les Pavots presents a beguiling mix of Knights Valley savoriness and the more restrained style that is such a signature of the Peter Michael wines today. A dark, mysterious wine, the Pavots offers up an enticing mélange of dark cherry, gravel, spice, menthol, licorice, lavender, cured meats and scorched earth. There is plenty of virile intensity, but without the heaviness of some past years. The Pavots is in my view the Peter Michael wine that has undergone the most dramatic transformation in recent years, and that's a positive. 96+ (AG)
68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Cabernet Franc, 10% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot. Deep ruby colour. Sweet and heady red fruit on the nose. Succulent sweetness, roasted cherries and tarry spices together. Full bodied and opulent. There is perhaps too much sweetness here, but it should please those who like the style. (TP)
About the producer

Founded in 1983 by Sir Peter Michael CBE and his wife Margaret, Peter Michael Winery produces some of California’s finest wines.