Pavie Decesse 2008

Another top-notch effort, the 2008 is a blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc produced from yields of 30 hectoliters per hectare. It reached 14% natural alcohol, no doubt because of the extremely late harvest. A deep purple color is accompanied by massive notes of blackberries, incense, fruitcake, camphor and toasty oak intermixed with a crushed chalk-like minerality (a hallmark of this vineyard). The wine has softened considerably in bottle, and while it seems more structured than the 2010, it reveals a degree of accessibility. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2035.

This offers a palate full of fresh crushed berries, ripe tannins and a clean, fresh finish. Refined

Like all the Perse wines, the 2008 Pavie Decesse is a backward, unevolved effort that just recently finished malolactic fermentation. An amazing effort (90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc) that was cropped at 30 hectoliters per hectare, it emerges from an 8+ acre vineyard planted in pure limestone whose vines average 47 years (relatively old by Bordeaux standards). The 2008 is another huge, massive, full-bodied St.-Emilion that is even more concentrated than the 2005 or 2000. Sweet notes of blackberries, kirsch, licorice, and crushed rocks are accompanied by an awesomely concentrated, pure, unevolved wine that appears set for 30-40 years of cellaring. It is best purchased by those who are willing to wait at least 10-15 years. This is another brilliant offering from Gerard and Chantal Perse. Are they obsessed? Yes. Are they perfectionists? Yes. As consumers, are we the beneficiaries? Yes.