2023 Peter Michael Les Pavots Cabernet Sauvignon Knights Valley

The 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon Les Pavots soars from the glass with a whole range of savory, floral top notes. Medium in body yet very deep, the 2023 is a superb example of both the year and Knights Valley. Vibrant red-toned fruit, blood orange, graphite, cinnamon, chalk, mint and dried herbs are some of the many notes that come alive in the glass. All of the energy of this cold, late-ripening year comes through loud and clear. Several recent bottles from the late 1990s and early 2000s point to the longevity of the best vintages, as I expect will be the case with the 2023.  ~97 Vinous Media

The 2023 Les Pavots is a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Cabernet Franc, 11% Merlot and 3% Petit Verdot, from grapes harvested very late, from October 27 to November 11. It has singular aromas of red and black currants, blueberry, salty licorice, violet, roast lamb, cigar ash and thyme, and its oak spice is seamlessly integrated. The full-bodied palate is powerfully styled with iron-laced flavors and abundant, velvety tannins. It’s balanced by bright acidity and has a very long, elegant finish. It will be long lived in the cellar. 2,940 cases were made and will be released in April 2026.  ~96 Wine Advocate