2001 Pahlmeyer Red
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Tasting notes
More primary and backward, the 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon needs 4-6 more years of cellaring, but is capable of lasting three decades or more. Composed of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and a dollop of Malbec, it exhibits a dense, thick, black/purple color as well as emerging aromas of cedar, black currants, ink, graphite, charcoal and forest floor. This full-bodied, packed and stacked Cabernet offers a sexy, open-knit opulence on the attack followed by noticeable tannins. However, the latter component is clearly balanced by the wine’s stunning concentration, texture and overall depth. As stated above, forget this beauty for another 4-6 years and drink it over the following 25-30+. Jayson Pahlmeyer’s wines made from Bordeaux varietals, and more recently his Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs, have been sure things for nearly two decades. Tel. (707) 255-2321; Fax (707) 255-6786
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
(a blend of 80% cabernet sauvignon, 14% merlot, 3% cabernet franc, 2% petit verdot and 1% malbec) Full ruby. Roasted currant, black cherry and bitter chocolate on the slightly medicinal nose. Penetrating fruit flavors of roasted plum and currant, complicated by notes of leather and bitter chocolate. Comes across as a bit more vibrant than the merlot despite possessing an even high pH. Then finishes firm and bright, with major tannins and late notes of currant, leather, mocha and tobacco.
Saturated bright ruby to the rim. Superripe aromas of raspberry, blackberry, licorice and mocha; perhaps a bit less pure than the merlot. Then thick and amazingly lush in the mouth, with strong purple berry and mineral flavors. This initially seemed quite unformed and youthfully simple but showed more definition and clarity as it opened in the glass. A very rich, saline, chewy wine that finishes very long, with thoroughly ripe tannins. Not quite as harmonious today as the young '01 merlot but possibly deeper.