Tesseron Estate Pym-Rae 2018

Region and Vineyards

Pym-Rae is sourced from a single vineyard on Mount Veeder in Napa Valley, perched at altitudes between 1640 and 1968 feet, with blocks positioned at various elevations. The vineyard spans 32 acres of sedimentary soils rich in sandstone and clay, ideal for producing wines of depth and complexity.

The 2018 growing season began with a rainy winter and moderate spring sunlight, leading to a slightly late bud break and flowering. The summer brought warm days and cool nights, with the oceanic influence ensuring a slow, even ripening. These conditions resulted in exceptional fruit balance and aromatic complexity.

Winemaking

The handpicked grapes were sorted manually, with gentle destemming and processing by gravity. Fermentation occurred in round concrete tanks (264 gallons) to promote a natural and delicate extraction of flavors.

Aging lasted 16 to 18 months, with 70% in new French oak barrels to enhance structure and complexity, and 30% in concrete tanks to preserve fruit purity and freshness. The balance between oak and concrete aging adds richness and a vibrant character to the wine.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep garnet with purple highlights.
• Aroma: Intense and precise, with notes of blackberries, blueberries, and dark cherries, complemented by hints of cedar, graphite, and a touch of floral perfume.
• Palate: Full-bodied yet elegant, with silky tannins and a lively acidity. Flavors of ripe dark fruits, mocha, and earthy spices unfold beautifully, leading to a persistent, harmonious finish.

Did You Know?

The name Pym-Rae pays tribute to the estate’s previous owner, actor Robin Williams, and the vineyard’s original name. The 2018 vintage benefited from organic and biodynamic farming certified by Demeter USA, reflecting the Tesseron Family’s commitment to sustainable viticulture.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Entrecôte Grillée avec Sauce Bordelaise: The wine’s tannins and richness pair beautifully with the savory, umami flavors of the steak and sauce.
• Magret de Canard aux Cerises: The dark fruit and acidity complement the richness of the duck and the sweetness of the cherries.
• Cassoulet de Toulouse: The structured tannins and depth of the wine balance the dish’s hearty textures and flavors.
• Beaufort Affiné: The wine’s elegance and fruitiness enhance the nutty, complex profile of this Alpine cheese.

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.