Pahlmeyer Red 2018

The 2018 Proprietary Red is every bit as magnificent as it was from barrel, if not moreso. It's just a great expression of the year. Rich and explosive, with tremendous depth, the 2018 possesses tremendous richness right out of the gate. Black cherry, plum, chocolate, new leather and spice soar out of the glass. The 2018 Proprietary Red is, sadly, the only wine Pahlmeyer will bottle in 2018, as fires were an issue at the estate vineyard on Atlas Peak.

The 2018 Proprietary Red could easily be mistaken for a great vintage from Château Latour, at least aromatically. Blackcurrants, scorched earth, lead pencil shavings, and a gorgeous sense of minerality all develop in the glass, and it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a deep, concentrated mouthfeel, building tannins (and plenty of them), and a great finish. This brilliant, world-class Cabernet is going to benefit from 4-5 years or more of bottle age and have 30+ years of longevity. The blend is 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot, and 1% Cabernet Franc, all brought up in 95% new French oak. 2,668 cases.

Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2018 Pahlmeyer Proprietary Red Blend is fairly shut down to begin. With swirling, it delivers vibrant scents of fresh blackcurrant and black berries plus hints of wild thyme, damp soil, black olives and pencil lead. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is tightly wound with loads of herbal and mineral sparks among the crunchy black fruits, with a firm, grainy texture and a lively backbone, finishing with tons of energy and persistence. 2,668 cases were made.

Dark and winey, with cassis, plum reduction and blackberry paste flavors allied to a singed alder and apple wood backdrop. Delivers dark tobacco and espresso crema accents that line the finish, as the fruit moves through slowly. For fans of the powerful style. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2023 through 2035. 2,668 cases made.

Cellar Selection. This is a thick, rich blend of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot and 1% Cabernet Franc that dazzles in dark brooding berry fruit. Concentrated and sublimely textured, it is weighty with hints of gun smoke, iron and leather that last for days. This will do well in the cellar; enjoy best from 2028 through 2038.