
The 2022 Pavie Bordeaux Blend, a creation of Pavie, hails from the renowned Saint Emilion sub-region in Bordeaux, France. This vintage is notable for incorporating the vines from Bellevue Mondotte and Pavie Decesse, marking the first time these properties are integrated into Château Pavie. The blend comprises 52% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc, and 18% Cabernet Sauvignon. Harvesting took place from September 15 to October 1, the earliest in Pavie's history.
Jeff Leve from TheWineCellarInsider.com awards this wine an exceptional 99 points, describing it as "inky, opaque, black purple in color, with an explosive perfume of purple flowers, licorice, truffle, and almost 100% cocoa." He highlights the wine's dense yet vibrant palate, noting the "opulent, rich, layers of concentrated blackberries, plum liqueur, black cherries, spice, smoke, licorice, espresso, and chocolate."
Jeb Dunnuck, who gives it 98 points, praises the "deep, saturated purple hue" and the "gorgeous bouquet of ripe cassis, blackcurrants, espresso roast, violets, and chalky minerality." Dunnuck emphasizes the wine's "full-bodied richness, layered, opulent mouthfeel, velvety tannins, integrated oak, and a great finish."
Jane Anson, scoring it 95 points, describes the wine as "muscular, intense, and well-constructed," with "incense, baked damson, milk chocolate, and creamy black cherry fruits." She notes its "salinity and savoury freshness" mid-palate, predicting it will take a full decade to reach its peak.
Antonio Galloni of Vinous, who assigns it 96 points, remarks on the "virile intensity" of the wine, with "black fruit, mocha, chocolate, licorice, and spice." He points out the "huge tannins and strong torrefaction oak imprint" that will need time to soften.
Decanter's review, also at 96 points, highlights the wine's "ripe and expressive nose" with "roses, irises, and violets," as well as "bitter orange peel, chocolate, and flint." The review mentions the "fine tannins with bite" and the "push-pull between density and direction."
James Suckling, offering a 96-point score, describes the wine's "intense aromas of cherries and spices" and notes its "structured and powerful" nature with "velvety, edgy tannins" and a "salty finish."
Finally, The Wine Independent awards a stellar 99 points, praising its "deep garnet-purple color" and "powerful notes of juicy blackberries, black currant pastilles, and wild blueberries." The review highlights the "fantastic tension between the intense, muscular black fruit flavors and a lively backbone," concluding it as "superb."
In summary, the 2022 Pavie is a powerful, vibrant, and opulent wine that has garnered high praise across the board, making it a noteworthy addition to any collection.