Pym-Rae Collection Vertical

A journey through three distinct vintages in Napa Valley

The estate

Nestled in Napa Valley, Pym-Rae Estate exemplifies winemaking excellence. Acquired in 2016 by renowned French winemaker Jean-Charles Boisset and his wife Gina Gallo, and currently owned by the Tesseron family, the estate is located on Mount Veeder, known for its unique terroir and exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon. The name Pym-Rae honors Boisset's mother, Pym, and their family heritage, influencing every aspect of the vineyard and winemaking process. High-elevation vineyards benefit from a distinct microclimate and volcanic soils, ideal for producing wines of depth and complexity. Committed to sustainability, the estate meticulously hand-tends and harvests each vine, ensuring the finest grapes. Combining state-of-the-art techniques with traditional methods, Pym-Rae produces wines that are both innovative and timeless. The estate's dedication to quality has made it a beacon of excellence in Napa Valley, celebrated by connoisseurs worldwide.

The collection

The Pym-Rae Collection Vertical offers a fascinating journey through three distinct vintages. The 2016 vintage impresses with its power and depth, the 2017 vintage with its elegance and vibrancy, and the 2018 vintage with its opulence and complexity. Each vintage showcases the unique characteristics of the terroir while maintaining a consistent quality that is a hallmark of Pym-Rae wines.

The 2016 vintage

Comprising Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc, the 2016 Pym-Rae presents a deep, almost opaque garnet color with a hint of purple at the rim, hinting at its richness. On the nose, it opens with a powerful bouquet of dark fruits, predominantly blackcurrant and blackberry, intertwined with hints of graphite and pencil shavings. As the wine opens and aerates, notes of cedar, tobacco, and dark chocolate emerge, adding layers of complexity. This vintage is full-bodied and well-structured, boasting firm yet velvety tannins. The palate continues the black fruit flavors, joined by nuances of plum, cassis, and a touch of vanilla from oak aging. The mid-palate reveals earthy undertones, with a lingering finish that is both savory and slightly spicy. The finish is long and persistent, showcasing a harmonious balance of fruit, tannin, and acidity. Dark chocolate and tobacco notes persist, leaving a memorable impression.

The 2017 vintage

The 2017 Pym-Rae displays a vibrant ruby color with medium to deep intensity. On the nose, this vintage is more aromatic and expressive, offering a bright bouquet of red and black fruits such as cherry, raspberry, and blackcurrant. These fruit aromas are accented by floral notes of violets and a subtle hint of mint, with underlying mineral notes and a touch of oak adding depth. Medium to full-bodied, this vintage is made up of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc and presents an elegant structure with refined tannins and vibrant acidity. The palate is dominated by fresh red fruits, including cherry and raspberry, complemented by blackcurrant and a hint of spice. A noticeable minerality gives it a fresh and lively character. The finish is long and clean, characterized by lingering minerality and bright red fruit. The tannins are smooth, and the wine concludes with a hint of spice and floral notes.

The 2018 vintage

The 2018 Pym-Rae boasts an inky purple color with a deep, dense core. The nose is opulent and complex, rich with black fruits such as blackberry, plum, and blueberry, layered with notes of espresso, dark chocolate, and a touch of black pepper. Subtle hints of leather and smoky oak add further complexity. Full-bodied and robust, this Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc blend has a powerful structure with well-integrated tannins and balanced acidity. The palate showcases an array of dark fruits, including blackberry, plum, and blueberry, intertwined with dark chocolate, espresso, and a touch of licorice. The pronounced oak influence contributes to the wine's richness and depth. The finish is exceptionally long and intense, with a satisfying blend of dark fruit, chocolate, and espresso. The tannins are firm yet polished, and the finish is marked by persistent spiciness and smokiness.