The 2021 L’Esprit des Pavots comes from two of Peter Michael’s three estate vineyards and favors Oakville fruit (58%) over Knights Valley fruit (42%) this vintage. A blend of 38% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, 22% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot, it’s a touch more open than its single-site counterparts, the Au Paradis and Les Pavots, although its aromas are just as pure. It has generous, layered scents of red and black currants and kirsch with accents of cocoa powder, cigars, aniseed, damp earth and desert sage. It strikes an effortless balance of concentrated flavors, sparks of fresh acidity and pixelated tannins, and it has a long, nuanced finish. Despite its upfront appeal, it will age gracefully over the next 10–15 years. 1,121 cases were made, and the L’Esprit des Pavots will be released in July of 2024.
Robert Parker Wine Advocate | 95 RP
Very bright and pretty with dark fruit and spices as well as orange peel. Medium-bodied and integrated, with tannins that spread across the palate and deliver structure with drinkability. It’s a blend of cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, merlot and petit verdot from their vineyards in Knights Valley and Oakville. Drink or hold.
James Suckling | 95 JS
The 2021 L’Esprit des Pavots is exquisite. Understated and classy, the 2021 offers unreal finesse, especially for a second wine. Mid-weight structure, silky tannins and lifted aromatics make the 2021 an absolute charmer. All the elements are so well balanced. This is a rare L’Esprit that slightly favors Oakville over Knights Valley in the blend. It’s a gorgeous second wine, if that term is even applicable here.
Vinous Media | 94 VM
The 2021 L’Esprit des Pavots is a blend of 42% Knights Valley and 58% Oakville fruit. Deep garnet-purple in color, it shoots out of the glass with vibrant notes of redcurrant jelly, fresh boysenberries, and juicy plums leading to suggestions of bay leaf, graphite, and lavender. The medium to full-bodied palate has a taut structure, with ripe, grainy tannins and plenty of freshness supporting the lively red and black fruit flavors, finishing with a skip in its step. The blend is 38% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, 22% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Petit Verdot. 1,121 cases were made.
The Wine Independent | 93 TWI
