Peter Michael L'Esprit des Pavots Knights Valley 2018

95 points James Suckling: "Complex nose of red fruit, berries and wood, together with a floral note. It’s a full-bodied red with firm texture. Succulent and structured. The tannins are firm and lead to a long, savory finish. Lots of earth, spice, pine needle and chocolate to the currant-fruit character. 51% Knights Valley and 49% Oakville. Mostly cabernet sauvignon with cabernet franc, merlot and petit verdot. Try after 2023. (2/2/21)"

92 points Lisa Perrotti-Brown (Wine Advocate): "A blend of 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Cabernet Franc, 7% Merlot and 4% Petit Verdot, the 2018 L'Esprit des Pavots comes from 51% Knights Valley AVA and 49% Oakville AVA. Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, it wafts out of the glass with compelling floral notes of dried roses and lavender over a core of Morello cherries, juicy plums, fresh blackberries and black raspberries. Full-bodied, the palate is completely coated and black and red fruit preserves flavors, supported by fine-grained tannins and a lively backbone, finishing long and fragrant. 1,707 cases were made. Drink: 2022-2034. (Feb 2021)"

Producer notes: "‘L’Esprit des Pavots’ is French for 'The Spirit of the Poppies.' First produced in the 2001 vintage, the wine was sourced solely from our Les Pavots vineyard and affectionately referred to as the 'little brother' of our flagship wine. The 2018 ‘L’Esprit des Pavots’ presents a nearly black color with highlights of crimson ruby. An elegant, floral nose is heightened with accents of dark cherry, caramel, truffle, blackberry, cassis, and toffee. Generous essences of blueberry, blackberry, the black cherry are hallmarks of the Les Pavots terroir, along with plum and hints of mocha and vanilla bean. The Au Paradis terroir brings notes of currant and crème de cassis with meaty nuances. The palate is full-bodied and concentrated, exhibiting savory leather, tobacco, and white pepper with chestnut, black truffle, cedar, and supple tannins with a lingering finish."