Jayson Red (Napa Valley) 2008

Pahlmeyer's second wine is a Cabernet Sauvignon-based (76%) blend of all 5 classic Bordeaux varietals, with substantial dollops of Cabernet Franc and Merlot, and small aliquots of Petit Verdot and Malbec. Unlike a lot of second wines, which often tend to be weak sisters compared to their big brothers, this is a big, brawny, high alcohol (>15%) wine. (Think linebacker rather than wide receiver.) Deep purple. Strong legs. Not an especially intense bouquet. Instead, the palate's volume is cranked up to at least 11. Sweet blackberry and blueberry framed by savory espresso and black olive flavors. Prunes and anise, as well. It'll last a while (2020?), but it's really a wine to drink up between now and, say, 2018 while you wait for your Pahlmeyer Red 2008 to come around. Grade: A--