97pts Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

The 2021 Proprietary Red blends estate fruit from Stagecoach (37%) and the Pahlmeyer Estate Vineyard (24%) with purchased elements from Upper Range (34%) and Vangone (5%). The varietal composition is 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot, 2% Malbec, 2% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc. Aging 18 months in 94% new French oak, it will be bottled unfined and unfiltered. Right now, it offers compelling fruit-driven aromas of ripe cherries, cassis, and blueberries—the oak is well concealed. Full-bodied and rich, this is dense and velvety on the palate, with a long, mouthwatering finish, despite an ample amount of dusty tannins.

Winemaker Notes

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.

Blend: 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Merlot, 1.5% Petit Verdot, 1.5% Malbec