An relatively new outpost by Willamette Valley Vineyards utilizing fruit from acclaimed Walla Walla vineyards, Pambrun is named after Pierre and Kitty Pambrun who operated the Nez Perce Trading Post for the Hudson’s Bay Company in 1832. The Pambrun Vineyard is planted alongside Walla Walla wine visionaries in SeVein and is located on the Oregon side of the Walla Walla Valley, as they produce three wines, a Merlot, a Cabernet Sauvignon and their ‘Chrysologue’ which blends both varietals.
Each wine was beautiful, coming from the electric 2018 vintage. I particularly admired the 2018 Pambrun ‘Chrysologue’ Red Wine (OB, 93) which deftly blends a larger portion of Cabernet Sauvignon (59%) with Merlot. Soft and approachable now with silky tannins and a soft mouthfeel, this has another fifteen years in front of it. Learn more at pambrunwines.com and here are my reviews of the new Pambrun wines.
2018 Pambrun Merlot- Souced fron the Seven Hills and Summit View Vineyards, this beautiful 2018 Merlot reveals silky tannins and bright red fruits that collide with shades of blackberry compote, scorched earth, tilled soils and chocolate cake on the palate. Full-bodied with plenty of toasty oak, this silky Merlot has another ten to fifteen years ahead of it. Drink 2021-2031- 92
2018 Pambrun Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2018 Pambrun Cabernet Sauvignon delivers plenty of soft dark fruits with tobacco leaf, chocolate and espresso bean flavors. Full-bodied and delicious now, this has another ten to fifteen years to go in the cellar. Drink 2021-2031- 92
2018 Pambrun ‘Chrysologue’ Red Wine- The 2018 ‘Chrysologue’ is a fantastic left bank style of blend, yielding 59% Cabernet Sauvignon with the remainder Merlot all sourced from the Walla Walla Valley. Once on the nose this takes on layers of Black Forest Cake, creosote and herbal undertones alongside toasty oak. The palate is plush, soft and well-balanced with tons of red and dark fruits that line a framework of silky tannins and plenty of finesse. Drink 2021-2033- 93