Description
Located in the heart of the Oakville AVA’s famed red dirt in Napa Valley, Au Paradis is exactly where its name translates to: “in heaven.” Planted in the foothills on the east side of the valley on a raised, gently sloping plateau, the Bordeaux varietals develop into a classic style with silky tannins and deep red fruit. Between 500 and 600 feet (150–180 meters), 26 acres (11 hectares) of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot look down on the valley and across to the Mayacamas Mountains. The slope and hillside location provide ideal sun exposure during the day and help develop the lush, intense fruit one would expect from such a magnificent property.
Notes From The Estate
The 2019 ‘Au Paradis’ displays a deep ruby hue in the glass, with a brilliant, aromatic array of black cherry, cassis, blackberry compote, and violets, accented with hints of graphite, cinnamon, and dark chocolate. On the palate, the round, mouth-filling entry showcases high-quality, fine-grained tannins with black tea and cocoa powder notes before giving way to a broad, structured, multilayered midpalate and resolving into a seamlessly elegant finish with great length. This classic ‘Au Paradis’ combines elegance with power. Approachable even in its youth, it will improve with five years to two decades of cellaring.
Scored 97 points by Antonio Galloni for Vinous in June 2022.