Pahlmeyer Napa Valley Proprietary Red 2015

Professional Ratings

• 97 James Suckling
  This is so balanced and articulated with precise aromas of currants, blackberries and cherries, as well as a mint character. Full body, firm and fine tannins and a juicy, subtle finish. Drink in 2021.
• 97 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

  The proprietary red wine blend has always been dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, but it includes other Bordeaux varieties as well. It is kept 22-24 months in 100% new oak. The 2015 Proprietary Red Wine, a blend of 79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot and the rest Malbec, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, has super concentration, a massive mouthfeel, heady, intense flavors of black and blue fruits, chocolate, wood spice and barbecue notes. It is a killer effort and, as so many of the 2015s, another magnificent vintage for Northern California.

  Range: 95-97

• 92 Wine Spectator

  Well-crafted, capturing the core of dark berry, earth, graphite and cedar flavors, with firm, ripe tannins and good length. Needs time. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Best from 2021 through 2032. 

• 92 Wine Enthusiast

  This blends 79% Cabernet Sauvignon with 16% Merlot, 3% Malbec and 1% each of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. The brawny nose opens in black currant and licorice, paving the way for the bold, rich flavors of lavender, blueberry and graham cracker to come.

• 91 Decanter
  Like the 2005 vintage, the 2015 comes from the estate vineyard high on Atlas Peak as well as from Stagecoach Vineyard. The nose is still reticent, with a herbal tone and some lively cherry fruit. The attack is quite gentle, but the wine grows in heft on the mid-palate, revealing a structure that's powerful and muscular. Although it lacks finesse, it has vigour and reasonable persistence.