Tesseron Estate Pym-Rae 2017

Region and Vineyards

The Pym-Rae vineyard is situated on Mount Veeder in Napa Valley, spanning 32 acres at elevations ranging from 1640 to 1968 feet. This high-altitude vineyard, with blocks positioned at varying elevations, benefits from a cooler microclimate, protecting the grapes during extreme weather events. The sedimentary limestone soils provide excellent drainage and contribute to the wine’s signature minerality.

The 2017 growing season began with a wet and cold winter, leading to a delayed start in the vines’ growth cycle. A warm, sunny summer followed, interrupted by intense heatwaves in early September with temperatures exceeding 110°F. Fortunately, the vineyard’s altitude moderated the effects of the heat, ensuring the grapes retained their balance and freshness. However, late-season wildfires impacted parts of the region, with the Cabernet Franc from this vineyard excluded from the final blend.

Winemaking

The grapes were handpicked into small crates to preserve their integrity and quality, followed by manual sorting and destemming. Fermentation took place in 264-gallon round concrete tanks, which allowed for a gentle extraction of flavors while maintaining freshness and complexity.

The wine was aged for 16 months, with 70% in new French oak barrels to build structure and complexity, and 30% in concrete tanks to preserve the purity of fruit and freshness. This combination ensures a harmonious and layered profile.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep garnet with ruby highlights.
• Aroma: Intense and layered, featuring blackcurrants, plums, and dark cherries, complemented by hints of cedar, tobacco, and earthy spices.
• Palate: Full-bodied and powerful, with silky tannins and vibrant acidity. Flavors of dark berries, mocha, and minerality unfold gracefully, leading to a long, balanced finish.

Did You Know?

The name Pym-Rae pays homage to the estate’s previous owner, actor Robin Williams, and the vineyard’s original name. The 2017 vintage, though challenging, is a testament to the resilience of the vines and the precision of biodynamic farming.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Côte de Bœuf avec Sauce aux Champignons: The wine’s bold structure and tannins enhance the richness and umami of the beef and mushrooms.
• Navarin d’Agneau aux Herbes de Provence: The earthy and herbal notes of the dish complement the wine’s complexity.
• Cassoulet de Castelnaudary: The wine’s acidity and dark fruit balance the hearty, savory textures of this classic dish.
• Cheddar Vieilli: The wine’s intensity and fruit profile pair beautifully with the sharpness and creaminess of aged cheddar.

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.