2009 Pahlmeyer, Red (Cabernet Sauvignon Blend) Napa Valley.
Pahlmeyer is a modern classic Napa wine and this latest vintage shows all the characteristics that have made it so popular over the last almost two decades with bold ripe fruit, smoky sweet oak and full bodied texture. While opulent and rich there is plenty of tannin to keep things firm and at this stage decanting is a must and better still would be patience and 3-5 years in the cellar. I tried the Chard and the Jayson Red as well, but while the Chardonnay is everything you’d ever want, the Jayson red really disappoints in this vintage, so it is clear the best work went into this 2009 Pahlmeyer Red as it is really complete and dense with pure Cabernet flavors, blackberry, cassis, currant and plum fruits as well as vanilla, sage, cedar and hints of licorice. With air this wine really comes together and flows in beautiful unfolding layers and the finish is super lengthy without being cloying or overtly oaky. I would bet on a higher score and more complexity in a few years time, as there is plenty of potential to improve here.
($125 Est.) 93 Points, grapelive
