Tesseron Estate Pym-Rae 2017

Nestled within the breathtaking landscape of Napa Valley, Pym-Rae Estate is more than just a vineyard; it is a testament to the harmonious encounter between a winemaking family and a singular terroir. Rooted in a perpetual quest for balance and guided by a reverence for nature, Pym-Rae Estate epitomizes the timeless pursuit of crafting wines of depth, balance, and freshness. 

For the Tesseron family, owners of the esteemed Pontet-Canet estate, the journey to Pym-Rae Estate began with a search for a place of exceptional quality and potential. Their quest led them to Napa Valley, where they discovered the Mount Veeder region—a place of cool, high-altitude vineyards and sedimentary soils enriched by millions of years of history. It was here that Pym-Rae Estate found its home, amidst the gentle slopes and precipitous terrain that define the region.

In January 2016, the Tesseron family acquired Villa Sorriso, the former property of the beloved actor Robin Williams. Inspired by the actor's connection to the land and his dedication to his family, the Tesserons chose to continue the legacy of the estate by christening their wines with the middle names of Williams' children: "PYM" and "RAE." This heartfelt tribute reflects the family's deep respect for the land and its previous owners. 

At Pym-Rae Estate, the cultivation of vines is viewed as a natural, handmade approach that prioritizes the symbiotic relationship between vineyard and winegrower. Drawing inspiration from their experience at Pontet-Canet, the Tesserons have embraced biodynamic principles, adapting them to the unique terroir of Napa Valley. This intimate and humble approach to winemaking is characterized by a profound respect for nature and a meticulous attention to detail.

In the cellar, the wine of Pym-Rae brims with energy and freshness, reflecting the meticulous care bestowed upon the vines in the vineyard. Each detail is carefully considered to reveal the potential of this rare terroir, resulting in wines of depth, balance, and freshness. From the vines tended like a botanical garden to the cellar resembling a secret cave, Pym-Rae Estate is a testament to the artistry and passion of the Tesseron family.

"Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2017 Pym-Rae leaps from the glass with bold notions of black cherries, mulberries, plum preserves and dark chocolate with an opulent undercurrent of Indian spices, potpourri, sandalwood and cinnamon stick. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is packed with rich, seductive black fruit preserves and an explosion of exotic spice sparks, framed by firm yet beautifully plush tannins and fantastic tension, finishing very long and achingly fragrant. Possessing loads more weight and mid-palate density than a lot of 2017s, this second showing is an absolute knock-out. Due to strict selection, only around 1500 cases were made this year." - Lisa Perrotti-Brown, The Wine Advocate (10/31/2019), Ratings: 97, Drink: 2021-2050