2018 Pavie
By Chateau Pavie
2018 Pavie from Chateau Pavie, Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux
The remarkable 2018 Pavie from Chateau Pavie stands as a testament to the estate's unwavering commitment to excellence and the distinguished terroir of Saint-Émilion. In tasting this profound vintage, I was immediately reminded of my earliest encounters with Bordeaux's velvety libations—an experience which never fails to illuminate the meticulous craft of fine wine production.
Unveiling the Excellence of a Singular Vintage
The 2018 growing season in Bordeaux was characterised by a tale of two halves, starting with an intense battle against the elements, followed by a blissful reprieve that allowed for impeccable ripening conditions. It is within this crucible that the 2018 Pavie honed its character—a resplendent blend balancing power and elegance.
A vivid representation of its distinguished vintage, the wine expresses a symphony of dark fruit aromas enlivened by a subtle nuance of anise and smoky undertones. The palate delights with luscious black cherry and plum flavours accented by hints of cocoa and warm spices. These notes dance on a stage built with sturdy yet refined tannins, suggesting a promising future for ageing.
An Investment in Terroir and Time
Lauded for its investment potential, the 2018 Pavie from Chateau Pavie exemplifies the sort of vinous treasure that savvy collectors covet. This offering not only appeals to enthusiasts seeking immediate pleasure but also to those with the prescience to appreciate how magnificently it will evolve.
In essence, the 2018 Pavie encapsulates the resilience of its vintage—a year that demanded fortitude from vine to cellar. This exceptional nectar is replete with depth and complexity that will certainly unravel splendidly over time, warranting its position as one of the standout vintages for both connoisseurs and investors alike.
In summary, those conversant with the labyrinthine paths of fine wine investment will recognise the 2018 Pavie from Chateau Pavie as a beacon of Bordeaux’s remarkable ability to transcend climatic challenges, yielding a vintage defined by its singular grace and formidable cellaring potential—a true frontrunner amongst its peers.
Current market price
£2,370.00
12x75cl
Highest score
99
POP score
124.74
Scores and tasting notes
The 2018 Pavie is a blend of 60% Merlot, 22% Cabernet Franc and 18% Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine has a 3.58 pH and 14.48% alcohol. Very deep garnet-purple in color, it bursts from the glass with a fabulously expressive nose of crème de cassis, baked plums and blueberry preserves, leading to an impressive array of nuances, featuring notions of dark chocolate, camphor, licorice, rose petals and fertile loam, plus hints of crushed rocks and iron ore. The rich, full-bodied palate offers layer upon layer of opulent black and blue fruits with loads of exotic spice sparks and pretty floral and mineral accents, supported by firm, super plush tannins and remarkable tension, finishing with epic length and depth. This could only be Pavie. It makes for a seductively stylish glass now, but patience will be rewarded if it is afforded 5-7 years in bottle, at least, then drink it over the next 30+ years.
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - The Wine Advocate, 31 March 2021
This is a very pretty and structured Pavie with a beautiful elegance and depth. Full body and a great core of elegant fruit, surrounded by very fine tannins. Very polished. Extremely long. Finesse with power.
James Suckling - jamessuckling.com - April 2019
The 2018 Pavie is composed of 60% Merlot, 22% Cabernet Franc and 18% Cabernet Sauvignon, harvested October 1-10 with yields of 38 hectoliters per hectare. The wine has a 3.58 pH and 14.48% alcohol. Very deep purple-black in color, the nose starts off quiet and stern, swiftly growing exponentially in the glass to reveal powerful plum preserves, fruitcake, coffee beans, smoked meats and black olives scents with emerging nuances of roses, hoisin, molten chocolate and licorice plus a waft of candied violets. WOW—the palate explodes with waves of black fruit preserves, exotic spices and savory chocolate, framed by very firm, super ripe, velvety tannins and an electric backbone of freshness, finishing with epic length and energy. Amazing, singular wine—it could only be Pavie.
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - The Wine Advocate, 23rd April 2019
Gorgeous from start to finish, offering lush layers of raspberry, cassis and plum sauce flavors entwined with licorice, apple wood and rooibos tea notes. There's a serious grip through the finish but this is focused and pure in feel. The encore of fruit detail at the very end is impressive.—J.M.
James Molesworth - Wine Spectator - April 2019
Not so long ago, Pavie would have rejoiced in the massive tannic and alcohol potential of this vintage, but they really have done a great job practicing restraint. It doesn't sacrifice Pavie's power but of all the wines in this particular lineup it's the one that carries the weight of the vintage the best, building power by stealth rather than grabbing it from you. This is great quality, with inky depths to the black fruits, accompanied by liquorice and chocolate, and the beautiful salty lick on the finish really completes the picture - your tongue just licks the wall and it's highly enjoyable! Harvest began on 26 September, later than some in the appellation, with a 38hl/ha yield. Although extraction was kept gentle, with the grapes given a week-long cold soak before fermentation at no more than 28°C, then a five-week maceration (longer than some, but these guys used to do eight weeks or more!), they have achieved a high tannin count of 97IPT and 3.58pH.
Jane Anson - Decanter - April 2019
The 2018 Pavie is a powerful, racy wine. Deep, unctuous and impeccably polished, the 2018 Pavie has so much to offer. A rush of red/purplish berry fruit, floral notes , leather, lavender and mocha all race across the palate. Even with all of its obvious tannin and structure, the 2018 Pavie is incredibly appealing and sensual from the very first taste. I can't wait to see it in bottle.
Antonio Galloni - Vinous - April 2019