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 ruby red 2020 ‘Au Paradis’ exhibits a complex floral and fruity nose of black currant, cassis, violets, black plum, and red raspberry. The wine showcases great structure with mouth-coating, velvety tannins in the late midpalate that resolve in a long, lingering finish. Black tea and dark chocolate accent this full-bodied, intense, well-structured edition of ‘Au Paradis.’
Scored 96 points by Erin Brooks for Robert Parker on February 16th 2023.