Tesseron Estate Pym-Rae 2016

Region and Vineyards

Pym-Rae’s vineyards are situated on Mount Veeder, at elevations ranging from 1640 to 1968 feet, offering diverse exposures and a cool microclimate. The 32-acre vineyard, planted on sedimentary soils of sandstone, shale, and volcanic tuff, produces wines with remarkable minerality and character.

The 2016 growing season was marked by ideal conditions. After a mild winter and spring, the summer provided consistent warmth, fostering even ripening. The absence of extreme weather events allowed for a leisurely harvest, ensuring optimal maturity and balance in the fruit.

Winemaking

The grapes, handpicked and meticulously sorted, underwent fermentation in round concrete tanks, preserving the purity of fruit and achieving a gentle extraction.

Aging was conducted over 16 to 18 months, with 55% in new French oak barrels to enhance complexity and 45% in concrete tanks to retain the wine’s vibrancy. This dual approach to maturation ensures a seamless integration of fruit, tannins, and oak.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep garnet with a shimmering ruby edge.
• Aroma: A rich bouquet of blackberries, dark cherries, and cassis, layered with notes of cedar, tobacco, and subtle hints of graphite.
• Palate: Opulent yet refined, with fine-grained tannins and balanced acidity. Flavors of blackcurrants, dark chocolate, and earthy undertones unfold elegantly, leading to a persistent and sophisticated finish.

Did you know?

The 2016 vintage marks one of the earliest releases under the Tesseron Family’s stewardship, following their acquisition of the estate in 2016. Their dedication to biodynamic farming has elevated Pym-Rae to a benchmark for sustainable viticulture in Napa Valley.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Côte de Bœuf avec Beurre Maître d’Hôtel: The wine’s tannins and richness enhance the juicy, savory flavors of the beef.
• Ragoût de Veau aux Champignons: The earthy profile of the dish mirrors the wine’s dark fruit and subtle spice.
• Cassoulet de Toulouse: The structured tannins and vibrant acidity complement the richness of this classic French dish.
• Comté Affiné 24 Mois: The wine’s depth and fruitiness balance the nutty, savory characteristics of aged Comté.

History of Tesseron Estate

The Tesseron family, renowned for their expertise in producing fine Cognac since 1905, brought their heritage of excellence to Napa Valley in 2016, acquiring the iconic Pym-Rae vineyard on Mount Veeder. The vineyard, formerly owned by the late actor Robin Williams, was named after his children’s middle names.

The family, led by Alfred Tesseron, also the proprietor of Château Pontet-Canet in Bordeaux, brought a deep commitment to biodynamic farming, sustainable viticulture, and crafting wines of purity and balance. They renamed the property Tesseron Estate Pym-Rae, paying homage to its legacy while instilling their philosophy of respect for nature and terroir.

Region and Vineyards

Tesseron Estate is situated on Mount Veeder, known for its steep slopes, cool microclimate, and diverse soils. The 32-acre vineyard sits at altitudes between 1640 and 1968 feet, with sedimentary soils composed of limestone, sandstone, and clay, offering excellent drainage and contributing to the wines’ minerality.

The estate’s location benefits from cool mornings and warm afternoons, ideal for slow, even ripening of Bordeaux varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. These high-altitude conditions produce grapes with vibrant acidity, concentration, and complexity.

Wine Range of Tesseron Estate

The flagship wine of Tesseron Estate is Pym-Rae, an elegant Bordeaux-style blend showcasing the estate’s unique terroir. Crafted with meticulous care, Pym-Rae combines:

• Cabernet Sauvignon for structure and depth.
• Merlot for softness and fruitiness.
• Cabernet Franc for aromatic complexity.

The estate’s commitment to biodynamic farming ensures that every vintage reflects the vineyard’s purest expression, producing wines with extraordinary aging potential.

Innovation and Philosophy

Tesseron Estate integrates traditional Bordeaux methods with Napa Valley’s modern winemaking techniques. The estate practices biodynamic viticulture, certified by Demeter USA, which involves:

• Avoiding synthetic chemicals.
• Using natural preparations to enhance soil health.
• Aligning vineyard activities with lunar and cosmic cycles.

This approach not only supports the environment but also enhances the vitality and character of the wines. Fermentation in concrete tanks and aging in a combination of French oak barrels and concrete ensure a balance between complexity and freshness.

Did You Know?

The name Pym-Rae is a heartfelt tribute to Robin Williams’ family, preserving the vineyard’s history while embracing the Tesseron family’s philosophy. The estate’s practices mirror those at Château Pontet-Canet, Alfred Tesseron’s Bordeaux Grand Cru Classé property, creating a unique link between Napa Valley and Bordeaux.