Peter Michael Les Pavots Knights Valley 2009

96 points Robert Parker: "...66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Cabernet Franc, 10% Merlot and 2% Petit Verdot, comes from Knights Valley. It exhibits a distinctive truffle, chocolate, blackberry and cassis-scented bouquet, a full-bodied mouthfeel, and fabulous concentration, purity and density. This magnificent effort’s open-knit style was surprising as most Northern California 2009s made from Bordeaux varietals are somewhat austere and closed at present. This wine should drink well for another two decades or more. (Dec 2013)"

96 points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The 2009 Les Pavots is absolutely fabulous. Mocha, espresso, spices, plums and blackberries are just some of the many notes that jump from the glass in this seamless, striking wine. The 2009 boasts exceptional textural finesse and tremendous class. In 2009 Les Pavots includes 22% Cabernet Franc, one of the highest percentages ever. It all works beautifully. The 2009 is firing on all cylinders. All of the vineyards in Les Pavots are now over 20 years old. In 2009 the blend is 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Cabernet Franc, 10% Merlot and 2% Petit Verdot. (Feb 2012)"

95 points Wine Spectator: "Offers a strikingly complex mix of flavors that are refined and graceful. Pure, rich and supple given its level of intensity and concentration, with a beautiful core of ripe wild berry, pomegranate, spice, mineral, cedar and graphite. Holding back ever so slightly. Another classic Les Pavots. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2030. (7/25/12)"

94 points Josh Raynolds (International Wine Cellar): "(a blend of 66% cabernet sauvignon, 22% cabernet franc, 10% merlot and 2% petit verdot): Opaque ruby. Pungent, assertive aromas of dried cherry, cassis, pipe tobacco, vanilla and woodsmoke, with a sexy floral accent emerging with air. Juicy and sharply focused, offering bitter cherry and floral pastille flavors brightened by a spicy element. Fine-grained tannins add shape and gentle grip to the very long, appealingly sweet finish. (May 2012)"