1990 Peter Michael Les Pavots

Peter Michael produces a Bordeaux-like, 100% Cabernet Sauvignon called Les Pavots. The current release, the 1990, is a beautifully made, blackcurrant-scented wine with medium body, wonderful integrated acidity, and a rich, concentrated finish. It could easily be confused with a top class Medoc given its structure and finesse allied to intense flavors. It is not close to maturity. While it is accessible, I recommend 3-5 years of cellaring; it is capable of lasting for two decades. One of the most exciting in California, this beautiful winery is owned by Englishman Sir Peter Michael. When he launched this winery, Michael had the foresight to hire the brilliant Helen Turley to oversee the winemaking (Ms. Turley has now left this estate in order to pursue her own venture). The current vineyard/winemaking team shares Ms. Turley's winemaking philosophy. The present as well as upcoming releases are irrefutably brilliant wines. Given the limited availability, readers may want to call the winery to find out about distribution of these wines. The telephone number is (707) 942-4459.