90 pts – Wine Advocate
The second wine, culled from barrels not considered at the level required of Les Pavots, is the 2014 Proprietary Red L’Esprit des Pavots, which is a relatively large cuvée of 2,120 cases. A blend of 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot, 18% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot, this wine is silky, lush and approachable, with low acidity and notes of black olive tapenade intermixed with graphite, blackberry, cassis and smoke. It is full-bodied, plush and best drunk over the next 10-15 years.- Robert M. Parker, Jr. (10/2016)
93 pts – Wine Spectator
Well-centered on rich, dark berry fruit that is firm and direct, with subtle flavors filling in the gaps and ending with tannins that give the flavors traction and structure. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2034. 3,570 cases made. — JL (11/2017)
93 pts – Vinous
The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon L’Esprit des Pavots is a dark, brooding wine. Deep and layered in the glass, with terrific aromatic intensity, the 2014 captures the essence of this Knights Valley site. In 2014, the Esprit is beautifully persistent and expressive. In short, this is a terrific vintage for L’Esprit.-AG
