Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
-
Wine Spectator
Very complete, this is wonderfully complex, smooth and well-focused, with currant, fresh tobacco leaf and sweet pepper flavors, ending on a pleasantly earthy note.
-
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The dense purple-colored 1999 Les Pavots exhibits sweet aromas of cassis, tapenade, cherries, licorice, and subtle wood. It is medium-bodied, with a cool climate textural profile, noticeable tannin, and a Bordeaux-like finish.
One of the world’s most classic and popular styles of red wine, Bordeaux-inspired blends have spread from their homeland in France to nearly every corner of the New World. Typically based on either Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot and supported by Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot, the best of these are densely hued, fragrant, full of fruit and boast a structure that begs for cellar time. Somm Secret—Blends from Bordeaux are generally earthier compared to those from the New World, which tend to be fruit-dominant.
A small and picturesque valley separating Napa Valley on its south border and Alexander Valley to its north, Knights Valley excels in similar varieties as the two aforementioned appellations, namely red Bordeaux varieties and blends, as well as Sauvignon blanc. Originally established by Beringer Vineyards, today several outstanding producers claim acreage here. The circadian cooling effects of the nearby Pacific Ocean create a nighttime respite for vineyards during the hot growing season.