2021 Pahlmeyer 'Jayson' Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
Classic Napa Valley Cabernet aromas of ripe blackberry and red currant are underpinned by an alluring dark forest floor earthiness and a high note of red licorice/candy shop. Valley floor fruit brings mouth-filling plushness to the palate, while concentrated mountain fruit drives through the core. Focused black fruit –cherry, plum, and raspberry –surge long and deep with hints of black olive and freshly cracked pepper. Polished tannins frame and lengthen the palate as a balancing acidity provides a magnifying lift. The finish is long, juicy, and plush with a thrust of grippy tannin, persisting with notes of vanilla bean, warm spice, and toasted hazelnut.
Jayson Pahlmeyer's mission from the outset has been clear: “industrial strength wines.” His megawatt personality is reflected in his wines, which regularly push the ripeness envelope. An absolute contrarian to the traditional “wine as a meal complement” philosophy, Jayson wants wines that are a meal unto themselves. The critics have noted his success with Robert Parker commenting “Things just seem to get better and better at Pahlmeyer, a long-standing, brilliant, remarkably consistent source for one of Napa's finest Merlots, Chardonnays, and Pinot Noirs.” There’s no question that these are wines that are built for maximum palate impact, but there’s substance behind the flash. While the grapes are picked ultra-ripe, they’re not out of balance. With Bibiana González Rave at the winemaking helm, the wines have never been better, and the Wayfarer project in Fort Ross is on the brink of becoming a new icon.
Wine Advocate
Pahlmeyer's 2019 Jayson Cabernet Sauvignon features notes of vanilla, cedar and black cherries—just a wonderfully harmonious swirl of flavors. It's full-bodied, rich and velvety, maybe a bit open-knit, but delicious and fun to drink
Wine Spectator
Packs hefty cassis, plum sauce and blackberry preserves, with an ample dose of warm cocoa and singed vanilla. Everything melds steadily through the broad finish. Shows more oomph than purity, though. For fans of the style.
James Suckling
A plush, full-bodied red with currant, olive, walnut and chocolate-nut character. It’s full and layered with so much unctuous fruit, but not heavy nor overpowering. Delicious and satisfying now, but will age nicely
Jeb Dunnuck
The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Jayson, which spent 18 months in 88% new French oak, offers a textbook Napa nose of ripe cherries, plums, scorched earth, and leather. Beautiful on the palate as well, it’s full-bodied, has a lush, mouth-filling texture, nicely integrated oak, and polished tannins. It’s up with the top wines at the price and is well worth seeking out. It’s going to keep for at least 15 years or more. Best After 2022.