2017 Peter Michael Les Pavots
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Tasting notes
Bright and energetic, with soaring aromatics, the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Les Pavots is utterly captivating from the first taste. A rush of blackberry, crushed rocks, graphite, rose petal, mint, lavender and blue/purplish fruit builds in the glass. All the pedigree of Knights Valley is on display. The 2017 is 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Cabernet Franc, 14% Merlot and 7% Petit Verdot. It spent 18 months in Taransaud and Darnajou barrels. The team opted to bulk out 40% of the wine, so production is down sharply. The wine that was bottled, well, it's pretty special.
Critic scores
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
Composed of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Cabernet Franc, 10% Merlot and 6% Petit Verdot, the 2017 Les Pavots comes from Knights Valley AVA. Deep garnet-purple in color, it leaps from the glass with vivacious notes of crushed black berries, Black Forest cake, blueberry compote and blackcurrant cordial with touches of camphor, lavender, tapenade and cigar box plus hints of mocha and pencil lead. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is packed with muscular black fruits, framed by firm grainy tannins and just enough freshness, finishing long and savory. 2,050 cases were made.
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.