Peter Michael L’Esprit des Pavots 2016

Peter Michael L’Esprit des Pavots 2016 is a polished Bordeaux-style blend from one of California’s most admired estates, offering remarkable depth and finesse for the vintage. Though it is the second wine of Les Pavots, it carries none of the expected compromise—this is a serious, finely crafted red built from estate fruit at Les Pavots and Au Paradis. In the exceptional 2016 vintage, it delivers a near-classic expression of Napa and Sonoma richness with a clear nod to Bordeaux tradition.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, the wine shows a deep, dark color that hints at its concentration and ripeness. The nose is immediately expressive, unfolding with aromas of dark cherries, plums, chocolate, black truffles, leather, liquorice, and a subtle cigar-box character. On the palate, it is medium-bodied yet impressively silky, with a supple texture and layered flavors that echo the aromatics. The blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot gives the wine structure, perfume, and depth, while the 18 months in French oak add polish and complexity. It is enjoyable now, but it also has the balance and backbone to develop gracefully over the coming years.

Production
L’Esprit des Pavots is made from estate-grown fruit sourced from Peter Michael’s own vineyards, Les Pavots and Au Paradis, in California. The blend is assembled by winemaker Nicolas Morlet, combining Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot to reflect the house style in a more approachable second wine. After harvest, the wine is matured for 18 months in French oak barrels, which helps shape its fine tannins, depth, and classic frame.

Food & Serving
This wine pairs beautifully with grilled ribeye, roast lamb, beef tenderloin, duck breast, and dishes featuring mushrooms or truffles. It also works well with aged hard cheeses. Serve at 16–18°C, and consider decanting for 1–2 hours if opening young to allow the aromas and texture to fully open up.

Producer
Peter Michael Winery is one of California’s benchmark producers, known for crafting highly sought-after wines from mountain vineyards with a strong French inspiration. Founded by Sir Peter Michael, the estate has built a reputation for precision, elegance, and limited-production wines that are consistently among the region’s most respected. Under the guidance of winemaker Nicolas Morlet, the winery has become especially celebrated for its Bordeaux-style blends and Chardonnay, with Les Pavots standing as one of its signature wines.

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