Complex nose of red fruit, berries and wood, together with a floral note. It’s a full-bodied red with firm texture. Succulent and structured. The tannins are firm and lead to a long, savory finish. Lots of earth, spice, pine needle and chocolate to the currant-fruit character. 51% Knights Valley and 49% Oakville. Mostly cabernet sauvignon with cabernet franc, merlot and petit verdot. Try after 2023.

The 2018 L'Esprit des Pavots is a blend from both the Les Pavots and Au Paradis properties. It is also a terrific introduction to the Bordeaux reds at Peter Michael. A high percentage of Franc gives the wine striking aromatic presence and tons of nuance. This classy, racy red is a winner -- Antonio Galloni

A blend of 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Cabernet Franc, 7% Merlot and 4% Petit Verdot, the 2018 L'Esprit des Pavots comes from 51% Knights Valley AVA and 49% Oakville AVA. Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, it wafts out of the glass with compelling floral notes of dried roses and lavender over a core of Morello cherries, juicy plums, fresh blackberries and black raspberries. Full-bodied, the palate is completely coated and black and red fruit preserves flavors, supported by fine-grained tannins and a lively backbone, finishing long and fragrant. 1,707 cases were made.- LPB