2017 Les Aromes de Pavie

Highly recommended, this is nuanced and sappy, with a ton of black fruits that offer grip and depth without being overpowering, overall a silky wine with hints of leather and saffron. At this point Arômes de Pavie had been bolstered by a purchase in 2014 of an 11ha plot in Côte Pavie located on the east side of the plateau, with an average vine age of 55 years. From this point the grapes for the wine have been sourced from this distinct area, with the wines also produced in their own cellar. 50% new oak, 50% one year oak for ageing, Gerard Perse owner.

The 2017 Arômes de Pavie is just gorgeous. Pliant and supple, with terrific fruit purity, the 2017 is an excellent choice for drinking now and over the next decade or so. Sweet red cherry and plum, mocha, wild flowers, rose petal and cinnamon add layers of nuance, but more than anything else the 2017 is a wine to drink for its joyous fruit and super-inviting personality.

A blend of 65% Merlot, 18% Cabernet Franc and 17% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2017 Arômes de Pavie is made from the young vines of Pavie, and due to its elevation, there was no frost in the vineyard in 2017. Deep garnet-purple in color, the wine has quite an earthy nose of fertile loam, mossy tree bark and truffles over a core of plum preserves, chocolate-covered cherries and a waft of cinnamon stick. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is bursting with bright fruits and energy, structured by wonderfully plush tannins and bold freshness, finishing with a spicy kick.