Introduction
Peter Michael L’Esprit des Pavots Knights Valley 2021 is an exquisite Bordeaux-style blend from the celebrated Peter Michael Winery. The name, “L’Esprit des Pavots,” means “The Spirit of the Poppies.” We affectionately refer to it as the “little brother” of the flagship Les Pavots. It represents a more approachable, yet equally refined expression of the estate’s vineyards. We sourced the 2021 vintage from both the Knights Valley and Oakville estate vineyards. It showcases a unique and elegant character. The wine was produced during a long, mild growing season. This allowed the grapes to develop complex flavors and maintain a lively acidity. As a result, the wine has remarkable finesse and a generous, fruit-forward profile.
Character Description
Peter Michael L’Esprit des Pavots Knights Valley 2021 has a medium to deep ruby-purple color. The bouquet is pure and intense. It offers fragrant notes of red cherry, plum, and black currant. Sophisticated hints of black tea, leather, and anise, with subtle savory and spicy elements, complement these fruit aromas. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and concentrated. It delivers an abundance of supple, silky tannins, and a rich, juicy mouthfeel. The wine has an impressive core of red and dark fruit flavors, framed by a refined structure and balanced acidity. The finish is long and savory, showcasing a seamless texture and a graceful, lingering elegance.
Perfect Pairings
This structured and aromatic Bordeaux blend is a versatile partner for a range of refined dishes. Its elegant fruit and supple tannins make it an excellent pairing for savory red meats. For example, it pairs well with roasted duck, rack of lamb, or beef tenderloin. It is also a beautiful match for dishes featuring earthy flavors, like a savory mushroom and truffle risotto or a flavorful pasta with meat ragù. For an optimal experience, consider decanting this wine to allow its complex aromatics to fully express themselves.
About the Winery
Sir Peter Michael founded Peter Michael Winery in 1982 with a vision to create world-class, terroir-driven wines based on classical French traditions. The winery’s philosophy is “mountain vineyards, classical winemaking, limited production.” This dedication to meticulous viticulture and non-interventionist winemaking allows the unique character of each vineyard to express itself. The L’Esprit des Pavots is a testament to this philosophy, producing a wine that is both approachable in its youth and capable of aging gracefully for a decade or more.
