Pahlmeyer Napa Red 2021

The 2021 Pahlmeyer Proprietary Red captures the essence of this stellar low-yielding vintage: powerful yet refined, intense yet luscious. Aromas of lingonberry and boysenberry interplay with flickerings of green peppercorn, saddle leather, and forest floor, culminating in a beautifully lifted bouquet. The tightly wound palate frames a core of intense plum and cassis layered with licorice spice. Polished tannins give way to a mid-palate rich with macerated blackberry and freshly grated nutmeg. This articulate, broad-shouldered blend is poised to evolve gracefully over the next two decades.We hand harvested each of our high-elevation sites in the cool of night and meticulously hand sorted and destemmed at the winery before fermenting and aging each lot separately. The individual lots were aged in nearly 100% new Taransaud oak barrels for 20 months. Stagecoach delivered power and intensity, while Upper Range exhibited exemplary classic mountain Cabernet character with gorgeous savory nuance and refined tannins. Waters Ranch brought depth and balance, and a touch of Vangone — a fantastic site that mirrors Stagecoach — lent even more richness and concentration. After blending, the wine was bottled in July 2023 for additional bottle age before release.