Tesseron Estate Pym-Rae 2019

Region and Vineyards

Pym-Rae comes from vineyards perched at altitudes ranging between 1640 and 1968 feet on Mount Veeder in Napa Valley, an area known for its steep slopes and unique microclimates. The 32-acre vineyard spans sedimentary soils composed of sandstone, shale, and volcanic tuff, contributing to the wine's complexity and minerality.

The 2019 growing season began with abundant rains, replenishing the clay-rich soils. A warm summer followed, with misty mornings and no significant heatwaves, leading to a long, balanced ripening period. Harvest took place between October 2nd and October 19th, ensuring optimal fruit maturity and freshness.

Winemaking

The grapes were handpicked and sorted manually before destemming. Fermentation occurred in round concrete tanks with a capacity of 264 gallons, promoting a gentle extraction of flavors and maintaining freshness.

The wine was aged for 16 to 18 months, with 55% in new French oak barrels to enhance structure and complexity, and 45% in concrete tanks to preserve the purity of fruit. This dual ageing method adds layers of texture and balance to the final wine.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep garnet with purple hues.
• Aroma: Intense notes of blackcurrant, blueberries, and plum, interwoven with hints of cedar, spices, and a touch of graphite.
• Palate: Full-bodied and opulent, with silky tannins and vibrant acidity. Flavors of dark berries, mocha, and earthy undertones unfold seamlessly, leading to a long, layered finish.

Did you know?

The name Pym-Rae honors the estate’s previous owner, actor Robin Williams, and the vineyard’s original name. The Tesseron Family’s commitment to biodynamic farming ensures that the vineyard remains a legacy of sustainability and excellence.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Entrecôte à la Bordelaise: The wine’s structure and tannins complement the richness of a red wine reduction.
• Lamb Tagine with Prunes and Almonds: The fruit-forward profile and spice notes enhance the savory-sweet flavors of the dish.
• Wild Mushroom Risotto: The earthy undertones of the wine pair beautifully with the umami-rich mushrooms.
• Aged Gouda: The wine’s vibrant acidity and dark fruit balance the nutty, caramelized intensity of the 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.