Since 2015, this estate has made a concerted effort to up the quality of their second wine, adding 4 hectares that previously went into the grand vin as well as purchasing vines on the upper plateau. I’d say it’s working, as the 2016 Aromes de Pavie certainly has a “baby Pavie” feel in its full-bodied, rich, yet elegant profile. Sporting a deep purple color as well as powerful notes of blackberries, truffle, forest floor, and tobacco, it has remarkable purity of fruit, silky tannins, and a great finish. It ranks with the top second wines in Bordeaux and is going to keep for 20-25 years. The blend is 66% Merlot, 21% Cabernet Franc and 13% Cabernet Sauvignon and was aged in 50% new French oak.