PYM-RAE, Napa Valley

Pym-Rae stems from the high-altitude slopes of Mount Veeder in Napa Valley. Originally established by actor Robin Williams and named after his children, the estate was acquired in 2016 by the Tesseron family of Château Pontet-Canet. Applying their expertise in biodynamic viticulture, they transformed this rugged, dry-farmed site into a producer of singular, mountain-grown Cabernet Sauvignon blended with Merlot and Cabernet Franc.

Under the direction of winemaking consultant Michel Rolland alongside the Tesseron team, production relies on hand-harvesting, native yeast fermentation, and precise extraction. The wine matures in a combination of concrete vats and French oak barrels, with a significant proportion of new oak. This approach preserves the intense mineral drive of Mount Veeder's volcanic soils while polishing the structural tannins for long-term cellaring.

The nose delivers dark plum, cassis, graphite, and crushed rock, framed by subtle cedar and dried herbs. On the palate, expect concentrated blackberry, dark cocoa, and firm, integrated tannins that carry a persistent, savoury finish across every vintage.