2008 Pahlmeyer Napa Valley Merlot
SKU #1126646
92 points
Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar
Good deep red-ruby. Blackberry and licorice aromas perked up by violet and spices. Juicy and moderately deep, with dark fruit flavors complicated by tobacco and cedar. Not a fat style for this bottling but boasts a solid acid/tannin spine and very good balance--not to mention fruit intensity. Today this makes the young 2009 Merlot seem a bit dry. (ST)
(6/2011)
91 points
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
One of the few world-class Merlots in Napa Valley has always come from Pahlmeyer, and the 2008 looks to be no exception. Inky purple-colored, the wine offers up chocolatey espresso/mocha/cocoa notes as well as plenty of plum, black cherry and blacker fruits. Medium to full-bodied, with silky tannins, surprising elegance, and good richness, it is not the blockbuster it can be in some vintages, but it is very stylish and should drink well for 10-15 years. (RP)
(12/2010)
91 points
Wine Spectator
Densely structured, yet loaded with rich and supple fruit. Offers black raspberry and Asian spice aromas and concentrated red currant, loamy earth, and espresso flavors. Needs time.
(10/2011)