Peter Michael 'L'Esprit des Pavots' Red Blend, California 2021

Peter Michael Winery, established in 1982 by Sir Peter Michael, is renowned for producing exceptional Bordeaux-style blends and Chardonnays from their estate vineyards in Sonoma and Napa counties. 'L'Esprit des Pavots,' meaning "The Spirit of the Poppies," is crafted as a more approachable counterpart to their flagship 'Les Pavots' wine, embodying the elegance and complexity characteristic of the winery's offerings.

• WINEMAKER: Peter Michael Winery's winemaking team, led by Director of Winemaking Robert Fiore
• FARMING: Sustainable practices are employed across the estate vineyards
• VARIETY: Blend of 38% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, 22% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Petit Verdot
• TERROIR: Sourced from estate vineyards in Knights Valley (Sonoma County) and Oakville (Napa County), the vines benefit from diverse microclimates and well-drained volcanic and alluvial soils, contributing to the wine's depth and complexity.
• VINIFICATION: Hand-harvested grapes undergo meticulous sorting before fermentation with native yeasts. The wine is crafted using traditional Bordeaux techniques to enhance its structure and aromatic profile.
• AGING: Aged for 18 months in 100% French oak barrels from select artisan coopers, imparting subtle oak nuances and promoting integration of flavors.
• TASTING NOTES: The dark ruby 2021 'L'Esprit des Pavots' offers an intense perfume of red and black cherry, blackberry pie, crushed rose petal, black currant, and red plum, supported by hints of dark chocolate, black pepper, anise, and black olive. The supple entry leads to soft, but plentiful silky tannins which persist through the mid-palate and lengthy finish.
• FOOD PAIRINGS: Pairs well with grilled meats, roasted poultry, hearty stews, and aged cheeses. Its balanced structure and rich flavors complement a variety of dishes, enhancing the dining experience.
• SCORES / ACCOLADES:
  • Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: 95 points, highlighting its generous, layered scents and effortless balance of concentrated flavors.