Pavie 1997

I am confident that the next vintage of Pavie I review (1998) will be a remarkably improved wine now that there is a new proprietor. Gerard Perse, the exceptionally passionate and motivated proprietor of Monbousquet, has become the biggest quality landholder in St.-Emilion. He recently purchased Pavie-Decesse (in time to make a superb 1997), and following the 1997 vintage, consummated the purchase of Pavie and La Clusiere. Anyone who has spent time in the vineyards of St.-Emilion knows that Pavie has one of that appellation's finest terroirs, yet it has largely been an underachieving property. Look for that to change. Monsieur Perse could not do much for the 1997 since it was already made, so this wine is not typical of what will ultimately emerge. The dark ruby-colored 1997 is herbal and earthy with a lean palate, and none of the charm, fat, or richness of the appellation's better wines. Its dry tannin, medium body, and overall size and depth suggest it should be drunk during its first 7-8 years of life.

Score: 83 - 85

Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, RobertParker.com Maturity: 1998-2006 01 April 1998