2001 Pavie, St-Emilion

SKU #1011256 96 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

One of the candidates for wine of the vintage ... again, the 2001 Pavie, from a magnificent south-facing vineyard planted primarily on limestone soil, is a blend of 70% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. After a six week maceration, it spent nearly 24 months in new oak prior to being bottled unfined and unfiltered...The inky/ruby/purple-colored 2001 exhibits a tight but promising nose of crushed stones, a liqueur of blackberries, cherries, and black currants, and subtle smoke and licorice in the background. Powerful, with impressive elegance, fine harmony among its elements, a multi-layered texture, it has a finish that lasts for 50+ seconds. There is considerable tannin, but it is well-integrated. Give it 3-4 years, and drink it over the next two decades. A profound effort for the vintage, it is an example of a perfectionist proprietor pushing the envelope of quality. (6/ 2004)

92 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar

Saturated ruby-red color. Knockout nose combines perfumed red berries, licorice, tar and chalky minerality, along with some exotic roasted notes. Sweet, fat and thick, with slightly roasted flavors of black raspberry and game. (6/ 2004)

92 points Wine Spectator

Powerful, with loads of smoke, vanilla, berry and chocolate character. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long, caressing finish. Modern and rich. Well-done. Best after 2008. (3/ 2004)